Name: Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; Water & salt (for boiling); 2 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup milk; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); ½ tsp Italian seasoning; ¼ cup reserved pasta water; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish); A dash of black pepper (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that wraps you in comfort with every bite, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta. It’s the perfect union of tender penne drenched in a luscious, garlicky, creamy sauce that hits every craving note. Each forkful delivers a harmonious blend of savory garlic, rich Parmesan, and just the right amount of spice and herbs, making it an irresistible, soul-satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is destined to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta lies in embracing simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in developing the dish’s rich flavor, smooth texture, and inviting aroma that will fill your kitchen with warmth.

12 oz penne pasta: Choose penne for its perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
Water & salt (for boiling): Salting the water enhances the pasta’s natural flavor right from the start.
2 tbsp butter: Adds a silky base with a hint of richness for sautéing garlic.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with signature flavor and aroma.
1 cup heavy cream: The key component that gives the sauce its irresistible creaminess.
½ cup milk: Lightens the cream slightly, balancing texture and richness.
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharpness and depth, melting perfectly into the sauce.
½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors to perfection.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the creaminess.
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a touch of heat to contrast the richness.
½ tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that elevates the dish’s profile.
¼ cup reserved pasta water: Perfect for loosening and perfecting the sauce’s consistency.
Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds bright color and fresh herbal notes at the end.
Extra Parmesan cheese: For topping and that final burst of flavor.
A dash of black pepper: To finish and garnish, enhancing aroma and taste.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook it until it’s perfectly al dente — about 10 to 12 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve a quarter cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water will later help adjust the sauce’s texture beautifully.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet set over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s shimmering. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds. The scent of garlic should fill your kitchen, signaling that the flavor foundation is well underway. Be careful not to let it brown — you want fragrant, golden garlic, not burnt!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream and milk. Add salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if you’re using them, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let the sauce gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This soft simmering allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly, setting the stage for the cheese.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese

Slowly add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to your sauce, stirring constantly to avoid clumps and ensure a smooth, velvety finish. If the sauce feels a bit too thick or sticky, don’t hesitate to add the reserved pasta water a little at a time. This trick gives you complete control over the consistency, making the sauce perfectly creamy without being heavy.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Gently add the drained penne pasta to your skillet and toss everything together so the noodles are evenly coated with the luscious sauce. Let it cook for another one to two minutes on low heat. This final step gives the pasta a chance to soak up the creamy garlic goodness, locking in flavor and ensuring every bite is indulgent.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and finish strong by sprinkling fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a dash of black pepper on top. These simple garnishes bring freshness, a little salty bite, and visual appeal to the dish. Serve this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta immediately while it’s warm and inviting.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a subtle herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess. Don’t shy away from heaps of grated Parmesan on top—it melts a little with the heat for an extra cheesy finish. A final sprinkle of black pepper brings brightness and a hint of spice that perks up every forkful.

Side Dishes

Since this pasta is rich and hearty, fresh, crisp sides serve as the perfect balance. Think a simple arugula or mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette, or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Crusty garlic bread is also a classic companion that doubles down on the garlic flavor and helps mop up every bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, try serving this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta in individual mini cast-iron skillets or rustic bowls for a cozy, inviting feel. Garnish each portion with a small sprig of parsley and a Parmesan crisp for an elegant touch. Alternatively, layer the pasta in a beautiful glass casserole dish garnished with herbs and cheese, so guests can admire its creamy glory before diving in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To preserve its texture, keep the sauce and pasta together so the flavors meld nicely, but be mindful to reheat gently to maintain the creaminess.

Freezing

Although pasta dishes with creamy sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze this dish in portions for up to one month. Use freezer-safe containers and avoid adding fresh garnishes before freezing; add those fresh after reheating. Thaw overnight in the fridge before warming up.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the pasta gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if it looks dry. Stir often to restore that silky sauce texture without overheating or separating the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully because it holds sauce well, rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle would be tasty alternatives that allow the creamy garlic sauce to cling nicely.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is vegetarian as is, but for a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil, use plant-based cream and milk alternatives, and choose a vegan Parmesan-style cheese to keep that cheesy flavor.

How spicy does the red pepper flakes make the dish?

The red pepper flakes add a mild warmth that nicely balances the richness but feel free to adjust or omit them based on your heat preference—it’s delicious either way!

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy pancetta make fantastic protein additions that complement the creamy garlic sauce splendidly.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is key for that vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, high-quality garlic powder can be used—use about half a teaspoon and add it when cooking the sauce to infuse some garlic essence.

Final Thoughts

Once you make this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, it will likely become your go-to for those nights when you crave comfort food with a touch of elegance. It’s easy to whip up, packed with flavor, and utterly satisfying. Dive in, savor every creamy garlicky bite, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a favorite you return to again and again.

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 18 reviews

Author: Gabriel
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a rich and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with subtle hints of Italian seasoning and a touch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick, this dish is garnished with fresh parsley and extra cheese, making it a perfect easy-to-make meal for any pasta lover.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the heavy cream, milk, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if using, and Italian seasoning into the skillet. Stir well and let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring continuously to avoid clumping. If the sauce becomes too thick, slowly add the reserved pasta water little by little until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked and drained penne pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly so that the pasta is coated evenly with the creamy garlic sauce. Let it cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the sauce flavors.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a dash of black pepper. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your creamy garlic penne pasta!

Notes

Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smoother sauce.
Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a mild dish.
This recipe can be made vegetarian by ensuring the Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or more milk but note it may affect creaminess.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Boiling, Sautéing, Simmering
Cuisine: Italian