Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the perfect dish for those who crave comfort food that is both delicious and easy to prepare. The creamy garlic sauce envelops tender penne pasta, creating a meal that can suit various occasions—from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. This recipe stands out for its rich flavors and quick cooking time, making it a favorite among pasta lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious sauce that elevates the simple pasta.
- Versatile Dish: Customize it by adding protein like chicken or shrimp, or toss in your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy goodness of this penne pasta dish.
- Elegant Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish looks as good as it tastes—ideal for serving guests.
Tools and Preparation
To make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta effortlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the penne pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Colander: Helps drain excess water from the pasta quickly and efficiently.
- Saucepan: Ideal for preparing the creamy garlic sauce without burning.
- Whisk: Ensures smooth mixing of flour and liquids, preventing lumps in your sauce.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Creamy 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
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in flour and cook for another minute, whisking continuously.
- Gradually add whole milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
- Continue to cook the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add cooked penne pasta into the sauce mixture.
- Toss until all pieces are well coated with creamy garlic sauce.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using; mix well.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for added color.
Enjoy your delightful Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or pairing it with other dishes, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
For a Cozy Family Dinner
- Serve with a side of garlic bread to complement the creamy sauce.
- Pair with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
For an Elegant Dinner Party
- Top each serving with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan cheese for a gourmet touch.
- Add sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken on top for added protein and flavor.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Divide into meal prep containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
With a Flavorful Twist
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or spinach into the pasta for added flavor and color.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet and tangy finish.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, keep these tips in mind.
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides more flavor than pre-minced options, enhancing the dish’s aroma.
- Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Season properly: Taste as you cook; adjusting salt and pepper ensures balanced flavors throughout.
- Cook pasta al dente: This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce, maintaining the perfect texture.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to complement your meal.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy side that perfectly matches the creamy sauce. Toast with butter and minced garlic for extra flavor.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch to your plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers roasted in olive oil add color and nutrients.
- Bruschetta: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on toasted baguette slices provide a refreshing bite before the pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Layers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a light starter.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus offers a tender yet crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold milk or cream can lead to a lumpy sauce. Always warm your dairy slightly before incorporating it into the sauce.
- Overcooking the pasta: Soft pasta can ruin the dish’s texture. Cook the penne al dente for a perfect bite.
- Neglecting seasoning: A bland sauce is disappointing. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed while cooking.
- Skipping the garlic sauté: Raw garlic can taste harsh. Sauté it until fragrant to achieve a delicious, mellow flavor.
- Not reserving pasta water: This starchy water is essential for adjusting sauce consistency. Save some before draining your pasta.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Consider portioning into individual servings for easy thawing.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and reheat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
You can pair this dish with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta vegetarian?
Yes! Just ensure that you use vegetarian Parmesan cheese and omit any meat-based sides.
How do I make my sauce thicker?
If your sauce is too thin, simmer it longer or add more grated Parmesan cheese until you reach your desired thickness.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is great, feel free to substitute with fusilli, farfalle, or any pasta you prefer.
Is Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge and reheats easily, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is not just comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or even proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy its rich flavors any time!
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that perfectly combines simplicity and rich, delectable flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
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
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add flour and whisk continuously for one minute before gradually incorporating milk and cream.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly; stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce, mixing well to coat. Season to taste and serve garnished with parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
