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: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
- Decadent Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce elevates the simple penne pasta into an indulgent meal.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or alongside grilled chicken or vegetables for added variety.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the rich flavors, making it great for family dinners and gatherings.
- Easily Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or veggies to make it your own.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: This is essential for boiling the penne pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Skillet: A good skillet helps in creating a smooth garlic cream sauce without burning the ingredients.
- Whisk: Using a whisk ensures your sauce is lump-free and perfectly creamy.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the 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
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 Penne Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add salt once boiling.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce
- In a skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Base
- Slowly pour in whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add heavy cream and continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, around 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Lower the heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
- Stir until cheese melts completely into the sauce.
Step 5: Mix in Penne Pasta
- Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce.
- Toss gently until the pasta is well coated with the creamy garlic sauce.
Step 6: Serve
- Transfer to serving plates or bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy garlic penne pasta!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Grilled Chicken
- Juicy grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce, adding protein and flavor.
Toss in Fresh Vegetables
- Adding steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach brings a pop of color and nutrition to your plate.
Serve with Garlic Bread
- Crunchy garlic bread complements the pasta perfectly, making for an indulgent meal.
Top with Extra Parmesan
- A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese elevates the dish and adds a salty kick.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley or basil not only beautifies the dish but adds freshness and aroma.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Perfecting your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta ensures that every bite is as delicious as the last. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more robust flavor compared to pre-minced varieties.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream and replace it with more milk.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the penne al dente guarantees that it retains its shape when mixed with the sauce.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they enhance all flavors in this creamy dish.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding shrimp or sausage for extra flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: This pasta can be made ahead of time; just reheat gently on low heat before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds crunch and vibrant colors to your plate.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a burst of flavor.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: These potatoes bring an extra layer of garlic flavor that complements the pasta beautifully.
- Grilled Zucchini: Simple grilled zucchini rounds add texture and are easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
- Bruschetta: Tasty toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for an excellent appetizer before the main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, there are a few common errors to watch out for.
- Using cold ingredients: Start with room temperature milk and cream. This helps the sauce blend smoothly without clumping.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook the penne until al dente. This ensures it remains firm and absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Neglecting seasoning: Taste your sauce as you cook. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors, making your dish truly delicious.
- Skipping the garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic to get that fresh, aromatic taste in your sauce.
- Not garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Don’t skip this step for a beautiful finish!
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 condensation.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Separate servings into smaller containers for easier reheating.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring every minute until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or cream to a skillet over low heat. Stir until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Just store it separately from the pasta and combine when ready to serve.
What can I add to Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
You can customize it with vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra boost.
How do I make a lighter version of Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use low-fat milk. You can also reduce the amount of butter for a lighter dish.
Is Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and makes for a convenient meal prep option. Just follow proper storage guidelines.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily modify it with various ingredients to suit your tastes. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the epitome of comfort food, offering a rich and velvety experience in every bite. This dish features tender penne pasta enveloped in a luscious garlic cream sauce, making it not only indulgent but incredibly easy to prepare. In just 25 minutes, you can create a meal that impresses at dinner parties or satisfies on busy weeknights. Whether served as a main dish or paired with grilled chicken and fresh vegetables, this creamy pasta is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your choice of proteins or veggies to make your own delicious twist on this classic recipe.
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
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Stir in flour and cook for another minute while stirring.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth; then add heavy cream and continue whisking for about 3-5 minutes until thickened.
- Lower heat and mix in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until cheese melts.
- Toss the cooked penne into the sauce until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
