Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta – Easy, Comforting, and Delicious!
When it comes to pure comfort food, few dishes rival a warm bowl of creamy garlic penne pasta. It’s simple yet indulgent, rich yet balanced, and incredibly satisfying. With tender penne coated in a silky garlic parmesan cream sauce, this recipe transforms basic pantry ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes.
If you’re searching for an easy garlic cream pasta that feels cozy and elegant at the same time, you’ve just found your new go-to recipe. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a comforting dinner for guests, this creamy garlic penne pasta never disappoints.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this comforting pasta dinner recipe perfectly every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
This dish checks all the right boxes:
- Ready in about 25–30 minutes
- Uses simple, accessible ingredients
- Ultra-creamy texture without complicated steps
- Easy to customize with protein or vegetables
- Perfect for weeknights or special occasions
The key to this recipe is balance. Garlic provides bold flavor, cream creates richness, butter adds depth, and parmesan ties everything together with its salty, nutty finish. The result? A quick creamy pasta recipe that tastes luxurious but is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Ingredient Deep Dive
Penne Pasta
Penne is ideal for creamy sauces because its ridges help capture and hold every bit of that garlic cream goodness. Short tubular shapes are perfect for this style of sauce.
Garlic
Fresh garlic is essential. Pre-minced jarred garlic won’t provide the same vibrant flavor. Five cloves might sound like a lot, but when gently sautéed in butter and olive oil, garlic becomes sweet, aromatic, and beautifully mellow.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream ensures the sauce is thick, velvety, and luxurious. It also helps balance the intensity of garlic.
Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated parmesan melts smoothly and enhances both texture and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded varieties for the best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add olive oil.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Do not allow it to brown.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly pour in heavy cream. Stir continuously.
- Let the cream simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Stir in grated parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Add cooked penne directly into the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Simmer together for 1–2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan before serving.
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve pasta water and drain.
- Sauté garlic in butter and olive oil until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and simmer gently until slightly thickened.
- Stir in parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Toss pasta with sauce, adding pasta water as needed.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Cream Pasta
Don’t Overcook the Garlic
Garlic should be fragrant and lightly golden, not dark brown. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and can overpower the dish.
Use Pasta Water Wisely
The starchy pasta water helps emulsify the sauce, creating a glossy finish that clings beautifully to the penne.
Keep the Heat Low After Adding Cream
High heat can cause cream to separate. A gentle simmer is all you need.
Taste Before Serving
Parmesan adds saltiness, so always taste before adding extra salt.
Delicious Add-Ins and Variations
One of the best things about this homemade garlic parmesan pasta is how versatile it is.
Add Protein
- Grilled chicken
- Sautéed shrimp
- Crispy bacon
- Pan-seared salmon
Add Vegetables
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Broccoli florets
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Make It Extra Cheesy
Stir in a handful of mozzarella or fontina for an even creamier finish.
Make It Lighter
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Pair this dish with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted asparagus
- Grilled vegetables
- Tomato bruschetta
For a full comfort-food dinner, serve alongside a crisp salad and warm bread to soak up every drop of sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave to restore creaminess.
Freezing: Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen, so this dish is best enjoyed fresh.
Why This Recipe Is Ultimate Comfort Food
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta delivers everything we crave in a comforting meal — warmth, richness, simplicity, and satisfying texture. Garlic adds depth, cream brings silkiness, and parmesan creates savory balance.
It’s the kind of dish you can rely on when you need something dependable and delicious. Whether it’s a rainy evening, a busy weekday, or a cozy weekend dinner, this pasta fits the moment perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a little extra cheese or simmer longer to thicken.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute gluten-free penne.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, but reheat gently and whisk well before adding fresh pasta.
Final Thoughts
This creamy garlic penne pasta proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. Rich, velvety, and packed with garlic goodness, it’s a comforting pasta dinner recipe that belongs in every home cook’s rotation.
Quick enough for weeknights yet indulgent enough for guests, this easy garlic cream pasta is truly comfort food done right.
Make it once — and you’ll crave it again and again.
