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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
