Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that promises to satisfy your cravings. With its rich, velvety garlic cream sauce enveloping tender penne, this dish is not only indulgent but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta fits the bill perfectly. Its creamy texture and robust flavor make it a favorite among both kids and adults alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe can be ready in just 25 minutes.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the humble pasta to gourmet levels.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side; it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or veggies for a personal touch.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking the penne pasta evenly and efficiently.
- Skillet: Perfect for preparing the creamy garlic sauce without overcrowding.
- Whisk: Ensures smooth blending of the flour, milk, and cream for a lump-free 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
- 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
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
- Add a pinch of salt and then the penne pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 11-12 minutes).
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Sprinkle in all-purpose flour while stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream until smooth and thickened.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
- Add cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce and toss until well coated.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta hot!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or alongside other dishes, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Grilled Chicken
- Juicy grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, adding protein and making the meal more filling.
As a Side Dish
- Serve this pasta alongside your favorite protein, like steak or fish, for a delightful complementary flavor.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Enhance the dish by topping it with chopped fresh parsley or basil. This adds color and freshness to each bite.
Paired with Garlic Bread
- A classic combination! The crunchy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
With Steamed Vegetables
- Add some steamed broccoli or asparagus for a nutritious balance. The veggies provide a nice crunch against the creamy pasta.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
To make sure your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
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Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers more flavor than pre-minced options. It enhances the overall taste of your creamy sauce.
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Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the penne until just al dente. This prevents sogginess and keeps the pasta firm.
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Gradually Add Milk and Cream: When making the sauce, add milk and cream slowly. This helps achieve a smooth consistency without lumps.
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Adjust Seasoning at the End: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This ensures the flavors are just right.
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Add Cheese Off Heat: Mix in Parmesan cheese after removing from heat to prevent clumping and ensure it melts evenly into the sauce.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some great options to consider.
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Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the pasta.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers provide a colorful plate and healthy additions to your meal.
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Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer brightness that balances out the creamy flavors of the pasta.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic make for perfect companions to soak up any remaining sauce.
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Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs brings a light touch to contrast with the heavy pasta.
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Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a zesty counterpoint to rich flavors.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms add an elegant touch while complementing the creamy texture of the penne.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus offers a slightly smoky flavor that enhances this comforting dish beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the pasta: Always cook penne al dente. This ensures it remains firm and absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Not measuring ingredients: Precision is key, especially with flour and cream. Use measuring cups to get the right consistency.
- Skipping the garlic sauté: Sautéing garlic enhances its flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds depth to your sauce.
- Using low-fat dairy: For a truly creamy texture, stick to whole milk and heavy cream. Low-fat options will not deliver the same richness.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your sauce before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to elevate the flavors in your dish.
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.
- Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of milk or cream, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine or rotini.
How can I customize this creamy pasta recipe?
You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or protein such as chicken or shrimp for more variety.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that still adds flavor.
Is Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and reheats easily, making it perfect for meal prep during busy weeks.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a delightful dish that offers comfort and versatility. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests at parties. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy its rich flavors!
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the epitome of comfort food, offering a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce enveloping tender penne pasta. Perfect for any occasion, this dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings with loved ones. With its robust flavor profile and creamy texture, it’s a dish that delights both kids and adults alike. Whether served as a standalone meal or alongside grilled chicken and fresh vegetables, Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is sure to impress. Easy to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
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 in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in flour to create a roux, gradually whisk in milk and cream until thickened.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted; season with salt and pepper.
- Toss cooked penne into the sauce until well coated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
