Description
This creamy garlic penne pasta features perfectly cooked penne tossed in a rich, velvety sauce made from sautéed garlic, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. Enhanced with a touch of black pepper, salt, and optional red pepper flakes for a slight heat, it’s a comforting and elegant dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Penne Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Heavy Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine. Let it heat through for 2-3 minutes without boiling.
- Melt Parmesan Cheese: Add the grated parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce begins to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the Sauce: Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy garlic sauce.
- Plate the Pasta: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the pasta to a serving dish.
- Add Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the creamy garlic penne pasta hot and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- To add protein, consider stirring in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts best and enhances flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Adjust red pepper flakes quantity to control the heat level.
