Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe

Looking for a quick yet delicious pasta recipe that satisfies your taste buds? Try this creamy garlic penne pasta! It’s a mouthwatering dish that combines tender penne pasta with a rich and creamy garlic sauce, making it the perfect comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this easy recipe is sure to impress. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this hearty and flavorful dish in no time!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or frying pan (for making the sauce)
• Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
• Measuring spoons
• Strainer or colander (for draining pasta)
• Grater (for Parmesan cheese, if desired)

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Easy Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?

Step 1: Boil the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 9-11 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, saving a little pasta water for the sauce if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the garlic sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Add the cream and broth
Once the garlic is aromatic, pour in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 3-5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.

Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until it melts into the creamy mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, continuing to stir.

Step 5: Combine pasta and sauce
Add the drained penne pasta into the skillet with the garlic cream sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Variations

• Chicken Creamy Garlic Penne: Add grilled or sautéed chicken pieces for a protein-packed meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken broth and use vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian version.
• Spicy Garlic Penne: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to heat things up.
• Mushroom Creamy Garlic Penne: Sauté some mushrooms along with the garlic for a richer flavor.

Cooking Note

• Keep an eye on the pasta while it’s cooking. You want it to be al dente, which means slightly firm when bitten. Overcooking pasta will result in a mushy texture that doesn’t hold up well in the creamy sauce.
• If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add more Parmesan cheese or a tablespoon of butter for extra creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
• A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with this creamy pasta dish.

Helpful Tips

• For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for a smoother sauce.
• If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter. However, the sauce will be slightly less creamy.
• You can prepare the garlic sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, reheating it gently before adding the pasta.

Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

1. Use fresh garlic for the most robust flavor. Avoid garlic powder as it lacks the richness that freshly minced garlic provides.
2. Make sure to cook the garlic until fragrant but not brown to avoid a bitter taste in the sauce.
3. For a smoother sauce, whisk the cream and broth together before adding them to the pan.

Similar recipes you may also like :

• Sausage Spinach Pasta Recipe
• Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
• One-Pot Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Bang Bang Chicken Pasta Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta shape you like. Fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle work well too.

2. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and toss them together.

3. Can I use a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream, and a dairy-free cheese substitute for the Parmesan.

Conclusion

Creamy garlic penne pasta is the perfect comfort food for any day of the week. With its velvety sauce, rich garlic flavor, and tender pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s so easy to make! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this dish will surely impress. So go ahead and enjoy the creamy goodness of this pasta, paired with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for the ultimate meal experience. Happy cooking!

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