3 Clever Kitchen Gadgets Worth Checking Out
These handy little gadgets make cooking easier — and they're actually pretty cool.
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you crave something indulgent yet quick and easy to prepare. This dish features tender penne pasta enveloped in a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce, topped with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of parmesan. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy garlic penne pasta is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly delicious. The combination of garlic and cream creates a luscious sauce that clings to every piece of pasta, making each bite irresistible. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick dinner.
- Quick and easy: Perfect for busy evenings.
- Rich and creamy: Indulgent flavor without the fuss.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite add-ins.
- Minimal ingredients: Simple pantry staples come together beautifully.
- Family-friendly: A dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- Make sure not to overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Adjust the cream and cheese quantities to your preference for creaminess and cheesiness.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Easy Variations
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Toss in sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, for unique flavors.
What to Serve With It
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted vegetables for a healthy side option.
- A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to complement the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Love Trying New Recipes? Check These Out
Save your favorites, discover something different, or make meal planning a whole lot easier.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes: Adjust seasoning and creaminess to your preference. Enjoy the rich flavors and ease of this creamy garlic penne pasta!
