Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

This creamy garlic penne pasta is rich, comforting, and full of flavor. I like how the velvety garlic sauce coats every piece of penne, making each bite warm and satisfying. It’s a simple dish that comes together quickly, perfect for weeknight dinners or when I want something cozy without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it uses basic ingredients but tastes like something from a restaurant. The garlic gives the sauce a deep, savory flavor, while the cream and cheese make it luxuriously smooth. I enjoy how versatile it is—I can keep it simple or add vegetables or protein to make it a full meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• penne pasta

• butter

• garlic, minced

• heavy cream

• milk

• grated Parmesan cheese

• olive oil

• salt

• black pepper

• parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. I cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. In a skillet, I melt butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

3. I pour in the heavy cream and a splash of milk, bringing it to a gentle simmer.

4. I stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

5. I season with salt and black pepper, then add the cooked penne and toss to coat.

6. I garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It usually takes me 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, so dinner is ready in about 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. When I want more protein, I stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon. For a lighter version, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

storage/reheating

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the pasta on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. I avoid microwaving for too long since it can make the sauce separate.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, I sometimes use fettuccine, rigatoni, or spaghetti, and the sauce works just as well.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

I make sure to cook on low heat and add the cheese gradually while stirring.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, I use plant-based cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives, and it turns out creamy and delicious.

What’s the best way to make the garlic flavor stronger?

I add roasted garlic or an extra clove or two if I want a bolder garlic flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I prefer it fresh, but I sometimes make the sauce in advance and store it separately, then reheat and mix with fresh pasta before serving.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic penne pasta is one of my favorite quick comfort meals because it’s simple, flavorful, and versatile. I like how it can be dressed up with add-ins or kept classic for a cozy bowl of pasta. Whenever I’m in the mood for a creamy, garlicky dish, this recipe always hits the spot.