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 and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce elevates the penne with a delightful taste that will satisfy your cravings.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with grilled chicken or veggies for added protein and nutrients.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy pasta, making it an excellent option for family dinners.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust flavors with herbs or spices according to your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools will make preparing Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta smooth and enjoyable. Here are some essentials you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Pot for boiling pasta: A large pot ensures even cooking and prevents pasta from sticking together.
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic and creating your creamy sauce without crowding the pan.
- Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in your creamy sauce.
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
Seasoning
- 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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Sprinkle in flour, whisking continuously until combined and bubbly (about 1 minute).
Step 3: Create Creamy Base
- Gradually add whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Stir in heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
- Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat until slightly thickened (about 3-5 minutes).
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add cooked penne to the skillet with sauce.
- Toss well to coat all pasta evenly; add reserved pasta water if needed to thin out sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove from heat; fold in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta as a delightful comfort meal that’s sure to impress!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Serving Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a delightful experience, as this dish is both visually appealing and delicious. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this comforting meal.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley adds a pop of color and enhances the dish’s flavor.
- Basil leaves: Fresh basil can give the pasta a fragrant twist that’s perfect for summer meals.
Accompanied by Protein
- Grilled chicken: Sliced grilled chicken on top can add protein and make it a complete meal.
- Shrimp: Tossing in sautéed shrimp creates a seafood variation that pairs beautifully with creamy garlic sauce.
As a Bake
- Baked penne: Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until golden for a comforting casserole version.
- Add vegetables: Mix in spinach or broccoli before baking for added nutrition and color.
With Different Cheeses
- Feta cheese: Crumbling feta on top gives a salty contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Mozzarella: Melting mozzarella adds an extra layer of creaminess that complements the garlic flavor.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
To achieve the best Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, follow these simple tips that will elevate your dish.
- Use quality pasta: Opt for high-quality penne pasta for better texture and flavor absorption.
- Don’t rush the garlic: Sauté garlic until fragrant but not browned; burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Reserve pasta water: Save some pasta cooking water; adding it helps thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the rich flavors of the pasta perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with tangy dressing adds freshness to balance the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil provide a nutritious contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side with Italian flair.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives offers variety and enhances the dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s quality. Here’s how to avoid them.
- Overcooking Pasta: If you cook the penne pasta for too long, it becomes mushy. Always follow package instructions and taste it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time ends.
- Not Using Fresh Garlic: Using pre-minced garlic can result in a less flavorful dish. Fresh garlic releases essential oils that enhance the creamy sauce, so always use freshly minced garlic.
- Skipping the Cheese: Not adding enough Parmesan cheese can lead to a bland sauce. Make sure to grate fresh cheese for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
- Adding Milk Too Quickly: Pouring in milk too fast can cause lumps in your sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season your sauce properly can make it taste flat. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a lid or plastic wrap, at 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a splash of milk over low heat, stirring until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a rich dish made with penne pasta tossed in a smooth garlic cream sauce, enriched with Parmesan cheese.
Can I customize Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
Absolutely! You can add veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or proteins like chicken or shrimp to make it your own.
How do I make my sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, allow it to simmer longer or add more grated Parmesan cheese as it cooks.
What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is not just an easy weeknight dinner; it’s also perfect for impressing guests at gatherings. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it delightful, while customization options allow you to tailor it to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret indulging in this comforting dish!
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a delightful comfort dish that combines tender penne with a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this indulgent meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. With its luscious flavors and creamy texture, this pasta is sure to satisfy your cravings and become a family favorite. The beauty of Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta lies in its versatility; you can easily customize it by adding chicken, shrimp, or seasonal vegetables to enhance the nutritional value and taste.
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, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour until bubbly; gradually add milk and heavy cream while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning; simmer until slightly thickened.
- Toss cooked penne into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted; garnish with parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
