Irresistible Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe to Savor

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that instantly transports you to a cozy Italian café, where the aroma of garlic mingles with the creamy richness of fresh pasta? Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta does just that! It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that comforts the soul and excites the palate. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet night in.

Growing up, my family often gathered around the table to share meals filled with laughter and stories. One of those cherished recipes was my grandmother’s creamy garlic pasta. Each bite was a celebration of flavor, with the creaminess enveloping the perfectly cooked penne and garlic adding just the right amount of zest. Imagine serving this dish on a chilly evening, where every forkful warms not just your body but also your heart. Get ready to indulge in an experience that promises amazing flavors and unforgettable memories!

Key Ingredients For Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Penne Pasta: A tubular pasta shape perfect for holding onto the sauce; choose high-quality brands for the best texture.
• Fresh Garlic: Select firm cloves for maximum flavor; roasting or sautéing enhances its natural sweetness.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the dish its rich creaminess; opt for full-fat cream for the best consistency.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control salt levels; it enriches the sauce while adding depth.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up the dish with color and freshness; use flat-leaf parsley for better flavor.

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Adds flavor and moisture to the sauce; low-sodium options are best to control overall saltiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining.

Second Step : Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced fresh garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned, about one minute.

Third Step : Create the Sauce

Pour in one cup of heavy cream and stir well. Add half a cup of chicken broth, followed by freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth, allowing it to simmer gently for about five minutes.

Fourth Step : Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add the drained penne pasta directly into the sauce. Toss gently to coat all of the pasta evenly in creamy goodness. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Fifth Step : Finish & Serve

Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley for brightness. Serve immediately in bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with more sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Pasta Cooking Water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce to pasta; don’t skip reserving it!
• Tweak Creaminess: Adjust heavy cream amounts based on your preference for richness in taste.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it will affect the flavor. Then, pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously to combine the ingredients smoothly.

Next, add grated Parmesan cheese to the pan and mix well until it melts into a creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor. Combine the cooked penne pasta with the sauce and toss until evenly coated.

Finally, let your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta simmer for another minute or two to absorb all those wonderful flavors. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta pairs beautifully with several dishes:

• Grilled Chicken: The rich creaminess of the pasta complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken.
• Steamed Vegetables: Add some steamed broccoli or asparagus for a delightful crunch and extra nutrients.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for an indulgent meal that everyone will love.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers of your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture. Heat gently on low heat in a skillet or microwave to prevent overcooking.

Variations

There are many ways to customize your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta:

• Add Protein: Incorporate shrimp or sausage for an added protein boost.
• Vegetarian Option: Use mushrooms or spinach instead of meat for a delicious vegetarian dish.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or spicy Italian sausage to give your pasta a spicy twist.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately from the pasta. Just reheat the sauce when you’re ready to serve and mix it with freshly cooked penne pasta for best results. If you mix them all together before storing, it may become dry when reheated.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk as alternatives to heavy cream. Both will provide creaminess but may alter the flavor slightly. For vegan options, cashew cream is also an excellent substitute.

How do I make my Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta more flavorful?

For enhanced flavor in your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, try adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme during cooking. You can also experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or Gouda for varied taste profiles.

Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?

Freezing is possible but not recommended due to potential changes in texture upon thawing and reheating. If you must freeze it, do so without any added proteins or vegetables; these tend not to fare well when frozen and reheated.