Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce together with tender penne for a dish that is both indulgent and simple to prepare. It is perfect when you need a quick dinner that feels special without requiring a long list of ingredients or complicated steps. The creamy garlic sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, making every bite luscious and satisfying. I often turn to this recipe when I want something cozy and filling, and it never fails to please family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

• Rich and flavorful sauce with just the right balance of garlic and cream
• Quick and easy to prepare, making busy weeknights stress-free
• Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand
• Customizable with proteins or vegetables to suit any preference
• Comforting and satisfying for both kids and adults
• Pairs well with a variety of side dishes or can stand alone as a meal
• Vegetarian-friendly but easy to boost with meats or seafood
• Reheats well, making it practical for leftovers or meal prep

I first made this pasta on a chilly evening when I needed something comforting fast. It quickly became a family favorite, and now it’s requested often—sometimes multiple times a week!

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta: tubular shape that holds the sauce well
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: creates a rich, creamy base for the sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: fresh garlic adds vibrant aroma and deep flavor
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: thickens the sauce to a smooth consistency
• 2 cups whole milk: balances creaminess and lightness
• 1 cup heavy cream: adds richness and velvety texture
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: contributes salty, nutty flavor and smoothness
• ½ teaspoon salt: enhances overall flavor, adjust to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: adds subtle heat and complexity
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): adds a fragrant herbal note
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: adds brightness and a fresh finish

For the best results, choose freshly grated Parmesan and fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced garlic. Whole milk and heavy cream together create a perfectly balanced sauce that is creamy without being too heavy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside while you prepare the sauce. This step ensures the pasta remains firm and will absorb the sauce well.

Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter carefully. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned to prevent bitterness. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the garlic and butter, whisking constantly. Continue whisking for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking steadily to avoid lumps. Allow the sauce to cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Keep stirring and cook for another minute or two until the cheese melts fully and the sauce is silky and smooth.

Combine and Serve:

Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly to make sure each piece is evenly coated with the creamy garlic mixture. Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for color and a fresh finishing touch. Serve the pasta immediately while warm.

Save

My favorite part about this recipe is the garlic cream sauce. Every time I make it, the smell fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that reminds me of cozy family dinners. One special moment was when I served this for a dinner party and a friend asked for the recipe right then and there because it tasted so good and looked elegant on the table.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. If you want to freeze the sauce, keep it separate from the pasta in an airtight container for up to one month, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap penne with other pasta shapes such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle to suit your preference. For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of butter instead of heavy cream. Gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch can replace all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. For dairy-free or vegan needs, use plant-based milks, creams, and cheeses, and nutritional yeast can mimic the cheesy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta pairs wonderfully with warm garlic bread for that classic comfort combo. Adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp makes it a more substantial meal. For a vegetarian feast, serve alongside roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. A crisp green salad or a light soup such as minestrone complements this rich dish very well too.

Pro Tips

• Whisk constantly when adding milk and cream to avoid lumps in your sauce.
• Do not overcook the pasta it should remain al dente for the best texture.
• Grate Parmesan fresh since it melts better giving a creamier and more flavorful sauce.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this garlic cream sauce complements various pasta shapes including fettuccine, rigatoni, and farfalle, adapting well to each texture.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of butter creates a lighter, creamy alternative while preserving the sauce’s richness.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute the penne with gluten-free pasta and replace the flour in the sauce with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for a safe variation.

→ Is a dairy-free version possible?

Absolutely, use plant-based milk, cream substitutes, and dairy-free cheese alternatives to maintain the creamy texture without dairy.

→ Can this be prepared vegan?

Yes, swap dairy items for vegan options and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan to achieve a flavorful plant-based version.

→ How do I prevent lumps in the sauce?

Whisk continuously while gradually adding milk and cream, ensuring the flour cooks thoroughly into a smooth roux for a creamy, lump-free sauce.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Gently warm the pasta on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and maintain creaminess.