Irresistible Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe to Savor

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is like a warm hug on a plate. Picture this: rich, velvety sauce clinging to each piece of perfectly cooked penne, while the aroma of garlic wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a delightful embrace. It’s the kind of dish that can turn a gloomy evening into a cozy celebration, with flavors so good they should come with their own soundtrack.

Now, let me take you back to a dinner party gone wrong everyone was late, and I was left staring at my half-finished pasta. But once I whipped up this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, it became the star of the night! Trust me; you’ll want to make this dish for everything from casual family dinners to fancy date nights. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

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

• Penne Pasta: About 12 ounces is perfect—look for whole wheat or gluten-free versions if preferred.
• Fresh Garlic: Use about 4-5 cloves; fresh garlic brings out the best flavor in this recipe.
• Heavy Cream: For that luscious creaminess—light cream works too, but it won’t be as rich.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh if possible; it adds an amazing umami flavor to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Use about two tablespoons; it’s perfect for sautéing garlic without burning it.
• Salt and Pepper: A pinch of each enhances all those wonderful flavors!

For the Sauce:

• Dried Italian Herbs: Oregano and basil work great here—just one teaspoon each brings extra flavor.

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

How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add about 12 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to stir occasionally; we want no pasta sticking together like old friends.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While your pasta is cooking, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in four to five minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant—about one minute should do it. Keep an eye on them; burnt garlic tastes like disappointment.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Pour in one cup of heavy cream into the skillet with garlic and reduce heat to low. Stir in one cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Add salt, pepper, one teaspoon dried oregano, and one teaspoon dried basil. Mix well until everything is harmoniously combined.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once your pasta is cooked and drained (remembering to reserve some pasta water!), add the penne directly into the skillet with your creamy sauce. Toss everything together gently if it’s too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your creamy garlic penne pasta onto plates or into bowls. Top with extra Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling fancy! Add freshly cracked black pepper for that gourmet touch—you’ve earned it!

Serving suggestion: Pair with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread for dipping into that luscious sauce!

Now that you’ve mastered this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta recipe, get ready for compliments galore! This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience filled with warmth and satisfaction perfect for sharing stories around the dinner table or indulging solo while binge-watching your favorite show!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by boiling salted water for the penne, which should be your first step. While the pasta cooks, sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant. Combine everything with cream and Parmesan once the pasta is al dente for a seamless dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this creamy garlic penne pasta by adding cooked chicken, sautéed spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes. A pinch of red pepper flakes can kick up the flavor if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my friend Sarah’s dinner party where I had everyone begging for seconds. The laughter and compliments made me feel like a five-star chef—who knew creamy garlic penne could be so magical?

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?

For a delicious creamy garlic penne pasta, you will need penne pasta, fresh garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, butter, salt, and pepper. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor. Consider including vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the dish’s nutritional value and taste. Adjust the ingredient quantities based on your serving size to create a satisfying meal.

How long does it take to make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?

Making creamy garlic penne pasta is quick and easy. The total preparation and cooking time is typically around 20 to 30 minutes. Start by boiling the pasta, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. nutritious pasta sauce option While the pasta cooks, you can prepare the creamy garlic sauce in just 10-15 minutes. This makes it an ideal weeknight dinner option when you’re short on time but still want something flavorful.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make creamy garlic penne pasta ahead of time! To do this, cook the pasta and prepare the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat the pasta and sauce together on low heat until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, simply add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?

Creamy garlic penne pasta pairs well with various side dishes. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements its richness nicely. You can also serve crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. refreshing salad accompaniment For protein options, grilled chicken or shrimp work well with this dish and provide a balanced meal that is both satisfying and delicious. For more inspiration, check out this creamy lemon shrimp pasta recipe.

Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta :

In summary, creamy garlic penne pasta is a quick and delightful dish that combines simple ingredients into a rich flavor experience. With only 20 to 30 minutes needed for preparation and cooking, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. vegetable-filled quiche recipe You can customize it with vegetables or protein while making it ahead of time for convenience. This recipe guarantees satisfaction for both family dinners and casual gatherings alike—enjoy every bite of this creamy indulgence!