Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. With its rich, creamy sauce and aromatic garlic flavor, this pasta is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal, Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta will impress everyone with its simplicity and taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates an irresistible sauce that coats every piece of penne.
- Versatile Dish: This recipe can easily be customized by adding vegetables or proteins like chicken or shrimp.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this pasta dish fits right in.
- Comfort Food Classic: Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that satisfies your cravings.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Frying pan
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the penne pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Frying pan: Perfect for creating the creamy garlic sauce that adds depth to the dish.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps in mixing ingredients seamlessly without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Sauce
- 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)
For Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest using a colander.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
- In a frying pan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in flour and cook for another minute until it turns slightly golden.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Mixture
- Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream.
- Bring to a simmer while continuously stirring until thickened.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add drained penne pasta to the sauce mixture.
- Toss to coat evenly; add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Plate your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for added color and flavor.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy indulgence!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your dish for special occasions, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Grilled Chicken
- Grilled chicken adds protein and a smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Add Seasonal Vegetables
- Toss in sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a burst of color and nutrition.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkling chopped parsley or basil on top brightens the dish and adds freshness.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- A side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Include a Side Salad
- A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
To ensure you achieve the best version of Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, consider these helpful tips.
Use quality ingredients – Fresh garlic and good-quality Parmesan cheese can make a significant difference in flavor.
Adjust the seasoning – Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for your preference.
Cook pasta al dente – This will help prevent the pasta from becoming too soft when mixed with the creamy sauce.
Reserve pasta water – Save a cup of cooking water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
Experiment with flavors – Adding red pepper flakes can give your dish a pleasant kick if you like some heat.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Enhance your meal by pairing Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
Garlic Bread – Crispy and buttery, it’s perfect for savoring every drop of sauce.
Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine and tangy dressing add a crunchy texture to balance the creaminess.
Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus spears bring an earthy element that pairs well with garlic pasta.
Caprese Salad – Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a fresh contrast that complements pasta beautifully.
Steamed Broccoli – A healthy choice that adds a pop of color and nutrients to your plate.
Antipasto Platter – An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats makes for an elegant starter or side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your sauce properly can lead to bland pasta. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as you cook.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking penne too long makes it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture.
- Using low-quality cheese: Cheap Parmesan can affect flavor. Opt for freshly grated cheese for a rich, authentic taste in your creamy sauce.
- Not sautéing garlic properly: Burning garlic can create bitter flavors. Sauté it gently until fragrant, but not browned, for the best results.
- Ignoring the cream’s temperature: Adding cold cream can cause separation in your sauce. Warm it slightly before mixing it with other ingredients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It lasts up to 2 months when frozen.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or cream over medium heat, stirring gently until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta.
What can I add to Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
You can add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute almond milk and coconut cream along with dairy-free cheese alternatives to create a delicious dairy-free version.
How do I make my sauce thicker?
To thicken your sauce, add a bit more flour during cooking or incorporate additional grated cheese until you reach your desired consistency.
Is Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or veggies to suit your tastes. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe that will surely become a favorite at your dining table!
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and cream with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, impressing friends and family alike. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal in under 30 minutes. The creamy sauce, enhanced by aromatic garlic and savory Parmesan cheese, envelops each piece of pasta, creating a satisfying dining experience. Customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it even more delightful.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 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 frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Add flour, then gradually whisk in milk and cream. Bring to a simmer and stir until thickened.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and reserved pasta water as needed.
- Combine the drained pasta with the sauce until well-coated and serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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