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Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe

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4.2 from 51 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta recipe features perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a luscious garlic butter and parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it is a comforting and indulgent dish ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with family and friends. The sauce is rich, creamy, and loaded with fresh garlic flavor, enhanced by a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz penne pasta

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside to be combined with the sauce later.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, making sure it does not brown to avoid bitterness.
  3. Simmer Cream: Pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Let the mixture simmer gently for 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a rich base for the sauce.
  4. Add Cheese: Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  5. Season and Combine: Season the sauce with salt and black pepper. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat each pasta piece evenly with the creamy garlic sauce.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve the creamy garlic penne pasta hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy.
  • Do not overcook the garlic to prevent bitterness; it should be fragrant and lightly golden.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for better melting and flavor.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
  • This recipe is not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets due to butter, cream, and cheese.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/creamy-garlic-penne-pasta-recipe/