Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the ultimate go-to comfort food that wraps you in its rich, velvety embrace with every bite. Tender penne smothered in a luscious garlic cream sauce makes for a dish that’s both indulgent and ridiculously easy to whip up. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that wows at a dinner party, this pasta is always a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the humble penne.
- Versatile Dish: Customize by adding vegetables or protein, such as chicken or shrimp, to suit your family’s taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and savory flavor, this dish is sure to impress guests at any gathering.
- Comfort Food Classic: It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this easy recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks perfectly al dente.
- Skillet: Ideal for preparing the creamy sauce while the pasta cooks.
- Whisk: Helps mix the flour and milk smoothly, preventing lumps in your sauce.
- Colander: Necessary for draining pasta quickly and efficiently without losing any noodles.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Once done, drain using a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk for about 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 3: Create the Sauce Base
- Gradually add whole milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.
- Stir in heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
- Cook until the sauce thickens slightly; this should take about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Pasta with Sauce
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the drained penne pasta directly into the sauce.
- Toss well to coat every piece of pasta evenly with the creamy garlic sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Plate your creamy garlic penne pasta into bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
- Enjoy your delicious meal!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
Pair with Grilled Chicken
- Juicy grilled chicken breasts add protein and a smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Add Sautéed Vegetables
- Bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach sautéed in olive oil provide color and freshness, making the dish more vibrant and nutritious.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top enhances the dish’s aroma and adds a touch of freshness.
Serve with Garlic Bread
- Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
Include a Simple Salad
- A light mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and adds a refreshing crunch.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
To make your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.
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Use fresh garlic – Freshly minced garlic provides a more robust flavor than pre-minced alternatives.
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Adjust seasoning to taste – Don’t hesitate to tweak salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor balance.
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Cook pasta al dente – Ensure your penne is cooked just right for the best texture; it should be firm yet tender.
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Incorporate cheese gradually – Add Parmesan cheese slowly while stirring to create a smooth and creamy sauce without clumps.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Complementing your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
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Caesar Salad – A classic salad featuring crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and Caesar dressing pairs perfectly with creamy pasta.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These caramelized sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the pasta.
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Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious green side, adding color and texture without overpowering flavors.
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Caprese Salad – This fresh salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil brings brightness that nicely balances the richness of the pasta.
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Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives provides variety and prevents the meal from feeling one-dimensional.
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Garlic Knots – Soft knots brushed with garlic butter are irresistible alongside creamy dishes, perfect for dunking into extra sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, even small missteps can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the pasta water: Not reserving some pasta cooking water can affect the sauce’s consistency. Always save a cup before draining.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking penne too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente, since it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese won’t melt well and may affect flavor. Opt for fresh grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture.
- Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning your dish can lead to blandness. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
- Not sautéing garlic properly: Burning garlic can make it bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta in an airtight container.
- It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It lasts up to 2 months; however, the texture may change upon thawing.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each session until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to regain its creamy texture while stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta.
What is Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a comforting dish featuring tender penne pasta coated in a rich garlic cream sauce. It’s simple yet indulgent.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works well, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.
How can I customize Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also include proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Is Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe will surely satisfy cravings and bring joy to your table!
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the quintessential comfort food, bringing a delightful blend of flavors and textures to your table. This dish features tender penne pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce that is both indulgent and straightforward to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe combines pantry staples to create a satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. In just 25 minutes, you can enjoy a plate of creamy goodness that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Italian seasoning (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot; add penne and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour for about 1 minute, then gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Stir in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; cook until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Mix in Parmesan until melted and smooth; combine with the drained penne.
- Serve garnished with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 675
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 98mg
