Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a deliciously rich and comforting pasta dish, you’ve gotta try this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but comes together so easily, making it a perfect weeknight winner or casual dinner party star. I absolutely love how this turns out every single time – velvety, garlicky, and with just the right kick of spice from red pepper flakes. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through this fan-freaking-tastic recipe step-by-step!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe lies in balancing simple, fresh ingredients to create a luscious sauce that perfectly coats your pasta. Here are some tips to make sure you pick the right basics before heading to the kitchen.

• Penne pasta: Its tube shape traps the creamy sauce beautifully for each bite.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic perfectly.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh and minced for that aromatic punch—you’ll want to smell it as it cooks!
• All-purpose flour: This is the secret to thickening your sauce into that perfect creamy consistency.
• Chicken broth: Adds depth and savory flavor—feel free to swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
• Milk: Keeps the sauce smooth and delicate; whole or 2% milk works best here.
• Red pepper flakes: For a subtle heat that livens up the dish without overwhelming it.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, of course—to bring all the flavors together.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped, for a fresh, colorful finish.
• Parmesan cheese: Divided—half goes into the sauce, half gets stirred in with the pasta for that nutty, savory kiss.

Variations

I love how versatile this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is. You can easily tweak it based on what you have on hand or to suit your dietary preferences—both my family and guests have been impressed when I switch things up!

• Add protein: Toss in some sautéed chicken, crispy bacon, or even shrimp to turn this into a hearty meal. One time, I added grilled chicken and everyone asked for seconds!
• Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and you’re good to go—still packed with flavor.
• Extra veggies: Stir in some steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for color and nutrition.
• Cheese swap: A bit of Asiago or Pecorino Romano can substitute the Parmesan for a slightly different but delicious flavor profile.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Prep Your Pasta Perfectly

Start by boiling your penne pasta according to the package instructions—usually about 10 minutes until al dente. When draining, toss the pasta with a teaspoon of oil to keep it from sticking. I’ve found this little trick saves so much frustration when it’s time to mix with the sauce, keeping every piece nice and separate.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant—but don’t let it brown or burn, or it’ll turn bitter. Aromatic garlic is such a game-changer here, I always find myself hovering near the stove just to enjoy the smell!

Step 3: Thicken Your Sauce

Sprinkle the flour into your butter and garlic mixture and stir well for about a minute—this cooks out the floury taste and helps create a silky roux. Then, slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk in stages, keeping it smooth and lump-free. Add in those red pepper flakes, half the Parmesan, the chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently until it thickens nicely—this usually takes just a few minutes. The sauce will coat the back of a spoon beautifully when it’s ready.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked penne pasta into the creamy sauce, stirring until every piece is luxuriously coated. Stir in the remaining Parmesan cheese to boost that cheesy goodness. Serve it piping hot, garnished with extra parsley if you like. Honestly, this is the part I look forward to—seeing the smiles around the table as everyone digs in.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I personally love topping this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor, plus an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese for that irresistible final touch. Sometimes, I add a few toasted pine nuts for a crunchy contrast—totally optional but delightful!

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy garlic penne with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. My family goes crazy for garlic bread on the side—it’s perfect for mopping up all that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

I once served this pasta in shallow white bowls with a sprinkle of finely chopped basil and edible flowers for a dinner party, and it was a showstopper. For a cozy night in, I like plating it in rustic ceramic dishes with a warm, crusty baguette on the side—it just feels right.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I transfer leftover creamy garlic penne pasta to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It stays good for about 3-4 days — perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, I recommend doing so without the fresh parsley (add that fresh when reheating). Freeze in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When thawed, it reheats beautifully without losing the creamy texture.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm your creamy garlic penne pasta over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it’s thickened too much. Stir frequently to keep it smooth and luscious—microwaving works too, but just be sure to stir halfway through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to comfort meals, just like it did for me. It’s approachable, satisfying, and downright delicious every single time without needing a ton of fuss. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—it’s the kind of dish you’ll feel proud to share, whether for a quiet weeknight or a special gathering. Now, grab your skillet and get ready to create some magic!

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