Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Penne Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal any time. With a rich garlic-infused sauce and tender penne, it’s simple yet satisfying.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• Water & salt (for boiling)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup milk
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• A dash of black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, then add salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
4. Step 4: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to prevent clumping. If the sauce becomes too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach a smooth consistency.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Let it cook together for another 1–2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
6. Step 6: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a dash of black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy garlic penne pasta!

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with additional milk or use half-and-half.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting texture and authentic taste.
• If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Storage

Store leftover garlic penne pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Because of the creamy sauce, freezing is not recommended as the texture may become grainy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 102 reviews

• Author: Marina
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This creamy Garlic Penne Pasta offers a rich and flavorful meal perfect for any pasta lover. Featuring al dente penne tossed in a velvety sauce made from butter, garlic, heavy cream, milk, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is enhanced with Italian seasoning and a hint of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s a comforting and elegant dinner option.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta
• Water & salt (for boiling)

Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup milk
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• A dash of black pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta, then set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, then add salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if using, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously to prevent any clumping. If the sauce becomes too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
5. Combine with Pasta: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat each piece evenly with the creamy sauce. Let the pasta cook in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes so it can absorb the flavors.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with fresh chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a dash of black pepper. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
• Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred level of spice or omit for a mild flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
• This dish pairs well with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• For a lighter variation, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use all milk, but expect a less rich sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Garlic penne pasta, creamy pasta sauce, easy Italian pasta, Parmesan pasta, quick dinner recipes