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 can be ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Flavorful: The creamy garlic sauce combined with Parmesan cheese creates an indulgent flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a side dish; it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or vegetables.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting pasta, making it ideal for family dinners.
- Easy Cleanup: With just one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze after enjoying this delicious meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, having the right tools on hand can streamline your cooking experience. Here are the essential items you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the penne pasta efficiently while providing enough space to stir.
- Whisk: This tool helps you create a smooth garlic cream sauce without lumps when combining the flour and milk.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients together gently without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Garlic Cream 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: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce
- In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add 4 cloves minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, whisking constantly for about 1 minute until golden.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Gradually pour in 2 cups whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add 1 cup heavy cream, stirring until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat.
- Stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, along with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
Step 4: Toss with Pasta
- Add the cooked penne back into the sauce, tossing until well coated.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water little by little until desired creaminess is reached.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta hot from the stove.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for an added touch of color and flavor.
Enjoy your delightful Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a delightful dish that can be tailored to suit various occasions and preferences. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Grilled Chicken
- Add sliced grilled chicken on top for a protein boost. The smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Tossed with Veggies
- Mix in sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added freshness and nutrition.
With a Side Salad
- Serve alongside a crisp garden salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil to enhance the aroma and add a pop of color.
Paired with Garlic Bread
- Complement your meal with warm garlic bread for dipping in the creamy sauce; it’s an irresistible combination!
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide a more robust flavor than pre-minced options.
- Choose high-quality cheese: Using good Parmesan cheese enhances the creaminess and overall taste of the dish.
- Don’t overcook pasta: Cook penne until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the perfect flavor balance.
- Add a splash of pasta water: If the sauce is too thick, adding reserved pasta water can help achieve your desired consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Serving side dishes alongside your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess that complements the creamy pasta well.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized veggies offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a fresh appetizer option.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a vibrant color and healthful addition to your plate.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an enticing starter.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic and Parmesan echo the flavors in the pasta dish beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the penne too long, it can become mushy. Always follow the package instructions and taste for doneness.
- Not seasoning the sauce: A bland sauce can ruin the dish. Remember to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices as you go.
- Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality Parmesan can affect the flavor. Opt for freshly grated cheese for the best taste and texture.
- Rushing the garlic: Burning garlic can lead to a bitter flavor. Cook it slowly over low heat until fragrant but not browned.
- Skipping the garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Don’t skip this step; it elevates presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain texture.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Portion into individual servings for easier thawing.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or cream to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a comforting dish made with penne pasta tossed in a rich garlic cream sauce, perfect for any occasion.
How can I customize Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or protein such as chicken or shrimp to enhance your dish further.
Can I use whole wheat penne instead?
Yes! Whole wheat penne adds more fiber while still providing that satisfying texture you love in creamy pasta dishes.
Is Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is meat-free and perfect for vegetarians looking for a hearty meal.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for any meal occasion. Try it today, and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a delightful dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. With tender penne enveloped in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce, this recipe is not only indulgent but also incredibly simple to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties, it can be on your table in just 25 minutes. This creamy pasta dish is versatile enough to stand alone or be paired with grilled chicken, sautéed veggies, or a crisp salad. Plus, the easy cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time fussing over dishes. Whether you’re cooking for the family or entertaining guests, Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta will surely impress.
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
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour until golden, then gradually add milk and heavy cream; stir until combined.
- Simmer the sauce and mix in grated Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper.
- Toss the cooked penne in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for desired creaminess.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
