Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta is the ultimate comfort food — rich, velvety, and bursting with the bold flavor of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This classic pasta dish features perfectly cooked penne tossed in a silky, creamy sauce made with butter, cream, and fresh Parmesan.

It’s simple, elegant, and ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its luscious texture and restaurant-quality taste, this pasta is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s one of those dishes that feels luxurious without being complicated. The combination of creamy sauce and sharp Parmesan creates the perfect balance of richness and depth. The garlic adds warmth and aroma, transforming basic ingredients into something extraordinary.

It’s also incredibly versatile — you can serve it as is for a vegetarian meal or add chicken, shrimp, or veggies for extra flavor. Plus, it’s quick, comforting, and always hits the spot after a long day.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta is a must-try because it’s pure indulgence in every bite. It’s made with simple pantry ingredients yet tastes like something straight out of an Italian restaurant. The sauce coats every strand of penne perfectly, creating that irresistible creamy texture you crave.

It’s ideal for date nights, family dinners, or cozy evenings when you want something satisfying but easy to prepare. Once you make it, it’ll quickly become a go-to pasta recipe in your kitchen!

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approx. 520 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms
• 1 cup baby spinach or steamed broccoli for added color and nutrition

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta until al dente.
2. In a skillet, sauté garlic in butter and olive oil.
3. Add heavy cream, seasonings, and Parmesan cheese; whisk until smooth.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and toss to coat.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente (firm but tender), according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss well to coat each piece with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using), and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta hot, directly from the pan. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp on top. It’s also a wonderful side dish for steak, salmon, or baked chicken. Sprinkle extra Parmesan before serving for that perfect finishing touch!

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smoother sauce.
• Don’t let the cream boil — simmer gently for a rich, creamy texture.
• Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it a complete meal.
• If reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

Variations

• Garlic Chicken Alfredo: Add cooked chicken breast slices for a protein-packed meal.
• Shrimp Parmesan Pasta: Toss in sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Spinach and Mushroom Penne: Stir in spinach and mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Lemon Garlic Pasta: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a fresh, tangy note.
• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a fiery kick.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the silky texture. Avoid overheating, as the sauce may separate.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Whisk (for smooth sauce)
• Tongs or spatula (for tossing pasta)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. For best results, use half-and-half or add a tablespoon of cream cheese for thickness.

2. How can I make this pasta lighter?
Use low-fat cream or unsweetened almond milk and reduce the butter slightly.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Cook and store the pasta and sauce separately. Reheat and combine just before serving.

4. Why did my sauce become grainy?
Graininess occurs if Parmesan is added to very hot cream. Lower the heat before whisking in the cheese.

5. What pasta shapes can I use instead of penne?
You can use fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle — any pasta that holds sauce well works perfectly.

Conclusion

The Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta is everything a pasta lover could dream of — rich, comforting, and irresistibly flavorful. With its luscious sauce, aromatic garlic, and perfectly balanced cheese, it delivers restaurant-level satisfaction in just 30 minutes. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or serve it for guests, this dish never disappoints. One bite of its velvety goodness, and you’ll understand why it’s a timeless classic worth adding to your dinner rotation. Buon appetito!