Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This Garlic Penne Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Creamy, garlicky, and cheesy, it comes together easily with pantry staples to satisfy any pasta craving.
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
- 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 before draining the pasta, then set it aside.
- 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.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream, milk, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if using, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
- Step 4: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to ensure the cheese melts smoothly and the sauce stays creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Step 5: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss it in the sauce to coat evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a dash of black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter option, substitute half the heavy cream with more milk or use all milk instead.
- Add cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach for extra protein and veggies.
- If you like it spicier, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated for the best melt and flavor.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle will work well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with olive oil and use coconut milk or a plant-based cream along with a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the creamy texture.
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Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Penne Pasta recipe features perfectly cooked penne pasta tossed in a rich and creamy garlic sauce, infused with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients
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 penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and 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 and pour in the heavy cream and milk. 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, stirring continuously to ensure the sauce stays smooth and free of clumps. If the sauce becomes too thick, slowly add some reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss it thoroughly in the sauce to coat each piece evenly. Allow the pasta to cook in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes so it absorbs the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a dash of black pepper. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water as the starch in it helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta and smoothens the sauce consistency.
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes to your taste or add a pinch of crushed chili.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for optimal flavor and creaminess.
- This recipe can be made vegetarian by ensuring the Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly or substituting with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently while adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: garlic penne pasta, creamy garlic pasta, easy pasta recipe, Italian pasta dish, vegetarian pasta
