Description
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a rich and flavorful Italian-American dish featuring al dente penne pasta coated in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce made with Parmesan cheese and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an elegant meal with friends, this recipe is easy to prepare on the stovetop and garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Penne Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Base: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to brown the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Prepare the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the melted butter and garlic mixture. Whisk constantly for about 1 minute to cook the flour and form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Cream: Slowly pour in the whole milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Then add the heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein.
- You can substitute half-and-half for the milk and cream if preferred for a lighter version.
- This dish pairs excellently with garlic bread and a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
