Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta because it’s indulgent without being too heavy. The garlic infuses the cream sauce with a bold, savory flavor, while the heavy cream and whole milk create a silky, smooth texture that perfectly coats the penne pasta. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated—ideal for any night of the week. The creamy garlic sauce is a crowd-pleaser, and it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crispy bread!

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup whole milk

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil the Penne: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Add the Cream and Milk: Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

4. Season the Sauce: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a touch of garlic powder if you prefer extra flavor.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

5. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Finish with Cheese: For an extra creamy and flavorful finish, stir in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce and toss again until the cheese melts into the sauce.

Serve:

7. Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time is about 5 minutes, cook time is around 15 minutes, making this a quick and easy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Variations

This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is incredibly versatile:

• Add protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon to the pasta. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian option.

• Add veggies: Toss in spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes to add color and nutrients.

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to give the dish a little heat.

• Swap the cheese: For a different flavor, try using Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or Asiago instead of the classic Parmesan.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can swap the penne for any pasta shape you like, such as fusilli, fettuccine, rigatoni, or spaghetti.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by using coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream and whole milk. You can also substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese for added creaminess.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

While this pasta is best enjoyed freshly made, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat the sauce and cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Can I add more garlic?

Absolutely! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two of garlic for a more intense flavor.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

While fresh garlic is best for this recipe, you can use pre-minced garlic in a pinch. Just be sure to use about 1 teaspoon of minced garlic for every clove.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the perfect balance of rich, creamy flavors with a touch of savory garlic and a hint of cheese. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying—ideal for a cozy weeknight meal or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. With endless variations and customizable ingredients, this dish is a must-try for any pasta lover!