Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta: 5 Reasons You’ll Love It

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a delightful dish that’s quick, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. This Italian-inspired recipe combines al dente penne pasta with a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this creamy garlic pasta is the answer. Let’s dive into the delicious world of this garlic penne recipe that is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this creamy garlic pasta. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, the flavors are rich and satisfying, making it the perfect comfort food. Additionally, this creamy garlic noodles dish is highly customizable; you can add vegetables, proteins, or even switch out the pasta type for a gluten-free version. Lastly, it’s a vegetarian dish that everyone can enjoy, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings. With its creamy garlic sauce, this penne pasta with garlic sauce is truly a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand!

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Gather these items:

• 8 oz Penne Pasta (Substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.)
• 4 cloves Garlic (Fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream.)
• 2 tbsp Butter (Olive oil makes a great dairy-free alternative.)
• 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Use grated pecorino or nutritional yeast for variation.)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat, add minced garlic, and sauté gently for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
3. Step 3: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic. Stir as the cream warms, then gradually add Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Step 4: Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
5. Step 5: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped herbs or additional Parmesan cheese as desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Keep these in mind:

• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip reserving the pasta water; it helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
• Consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Since this is a stovetop recipe, keep your ingredients ready to go before you start cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

There are several delicious ways to serve this creamy garlic penne pasta for dinner. Pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables for a colorful plate. If you want to elevate the dish further, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor and color.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it in a covered container or warm it on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of reserved pasta water or additional cream to loosen it up and regain that creamy texture. This makes it an excellent one-pot creamy garlic penne pasta recipe for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients and not overcooking the garlic. Sautéing the garlic just until fragrant ensures a robust flavor without bitterness.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine them when ready to serve, and reheat as instructed.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure the garlic is not burnt, and always reserve pasta water for adjusting the sauce’s consistency. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning!

Variations of Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta You Can Try

Here are a few variations to consider:

• Vegetarian creamy garlic penne pasta: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition.
• Creamy garlic penne with chicken: Incorporate grilled chicken slices for a heartier meal.
• Creamy garlic penne pasta without cream: Substitute cream with a plant-based alternative for a lighter dish.
• Gluten-free creamy garlic penne pasta: Use gluten-free penne to cater to dietary restrictions.

For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil or Homemade Tomato Sauce. If you’re interested in vegetarian options, consider Mediterranean Chickpea Salad for a refreshing side dish.

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta: 5 Reasons You’ll Love It

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This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a delightful dish that’s quick, customizable, and perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Pasta
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz Penne Pasta (Substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.)
• 4 cloves Garlic (Fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream.)
• 2 tbsp Butter (Olive oil makes a great dairy-free alternative.)
• 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Use grated pecorino or nutritional yeast for variation.)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat, add minced garlic and sauté gently for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
3. Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic. Stir as the cream warms, then gradually add Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped herbs or additional Parmesan cheese as desired.

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 65 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg