Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the perfect comfort food that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. This dish wraps you in its creamy, rich texture while delivering a punch of garlicky goodness. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a fancy gathering with friends, this pasta shines on every occasion. Its creamy sauce, paired with perfectly cooked penne, makes it a standout dish that’s both easy to prepare and impressively delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Whip up this dish in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and cream creates an irresistible sauce that elevates the pasta to gourmet status.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or paired with grilled chicken or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting pasta dish, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or veggies to make it your own.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather all the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything ready will make preparing your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the penne pasta evenly and efficiently.
- Colander: Helps drain the pasta without losing any delicious noodles.
- Large skillet: Perfect for creating the creamy garlic sauce while combining all ingredients seamlessly.
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 and Garnish
- 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 Penne Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining; then drain the pasta using a colander.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using).
- Add cooked penne to the sauce, tossing well to coat every piece of pasta.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Serve immediately in bowls or plates.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Enjoy your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta as an indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is not only a delightful dish on its own but also pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Grilled Chicken
- Juicy, grilled chicken adds protein and a smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
With Steamed Vegetables
- Fresh vegetables like broccoli or asparagus provide a colorful and nutritious contrast to the rich pasta.
Topped with Extra Parmesan
- A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese enhances the cheesy goodness and adds a savory depth to each bite.
With Garlic Bread
- Crispy garlic bread makes for an excellent side, perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic cream sauce.
With a Fresh Salad
- A light mixed greens salad balances the richness of the pasta, offering freshness and crunch.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can enhance flavor and add a luxurious touch to your dish.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
For those looking to elevate their Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, here are some tips that can help you achieve pasta perfection.
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Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide a stronger and more vibrant flavor than pre-minced options.
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Cook pasta al dente: Ensure your penne is cooked al dente for the perfect texture that holds up well in the creamy sauce.
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Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference for an optimal flavor experience.
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Add herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can bring an aromatic component that brightens the dish wonderfully.
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 delicious options to consider:
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Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad adds crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons for texture contrast. -
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These nutty roasted sprouts pair well with the creaminess of the pasta, adding a satisfying crunch. -
Garlic Knots
Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate. -
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction bring brightness to your meal. -
Minestrone Soup
This hearty Italian soup offers vegetables and beans, providing warmth and comfort alongside your pasta. -
Antipasto Platter
A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting starter before diving into your main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt can lead to bland pasta. Always taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking penne too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente by checking the package instructions and tasting a minute or two before it’s done.
- Not using enough garlic: Garlic is the star of this dish. Don’t skimp! Use fresh minced garlic for maximum flavor.
- Using cold dairy: Adding cold milk or cream can cause the sauce to separate. Make sure your dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing them in.
- Forgetting to reserve pasta water: This starchy water can help thicken your sauce if it’s too thin. Always save a cup before draining your pasta.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be stored for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
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 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk and heat on low, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta so special?
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta stands out due to its rich garlic flavor combined with a creamy texture that creates comfort food perfection.
Can I add vegetables to Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms make great additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.
How can I make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta lighter?
To lighten up this dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or low-fat milk instead of whole milk.
What pairs well with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding proteins like chicken or shrimp, or mix in your favorite veggies. Give this comforting dish a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish, combining a luscious, velvety sauce with perfectly cooked penne. This quick and easy recipe is bursting with garlicky flavor and is ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The rich creamy sauce coats each piece of pasta, creating an indulgent meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s customizable—feel free to add your favorite proteins or veggies to make it uniquely yours. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience. Your taste buds will thank you!
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 pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in flour for about 1-2 minutes until golden, then gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Allow the sauce to thicken slightly before mixing in Parmesan cheese and seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine the cooked penne with the sauce, tossing to coat well. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
