Description
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the quintessential comfort food that combines tender penne pasta with a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this indulgent meal in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for both quick dinners and special occasions. The luscious sauce clings to each piece of pasta, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s versatile—customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies to suit everyone’s taste. Serve this creamy delight garnished with fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir for about a minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth; simmer until thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional Italian seasoning.
- Add cooked penne to the sauce, mixing until well coated. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 575
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 90mg