Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

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When I’m craving comfort food that doesn’t take hours to make, I always turn to my Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta. It’s rich, cheesy, full of bold garlic flavor, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Every bite of this dish feels like a warm hug—it’s exactly what I need after a long day or when I want to impress someone with minimal effort.

The magic lies in the creamy garlic sauce that clings to every piece of penne. I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and it never fails to hit the spot. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or pairing it with a glass of wine for a cozy dinner at home, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a staple.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

This recipe checks every box: it’s fast, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and tastes like something you’d get at a restaurant. The garlic butter sauce is luscious and silky, and when paired with perfectly cooked pasta and melty cheese, it’s pure heaven. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can dress it up or keep it simple.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best?

I love using penne for this dish because it holds the sauce in all the right places, but any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni will work just fine. The key is to use a pasta shape that grabs the sauce, so you get a creamy bite every time. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti or linguine here—they just don’t offer the same satisfaction.

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Options for Substitutions

No heavy cream on hand? Swap it for half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter. If you’re dairy-free, try using full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms to boost the protein and flavor. For a spicy twist, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious.

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Ingredients for this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

• Penne Pasta: The base of the dish, it holds the sauce well and has the perfect bite.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps cook the garlic without burning.
• Garlic: The star of the show, it infuses the entire dish with bold, savory flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Creates that indulgent, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Gives the dish that gooey, stretchy texture we all love.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley: A final touch of freshness and color for garnish.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. The garlic should be fragrant but not browned.

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Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently and let it warm through for 2-3 minutes. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Gradually whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

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Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the drained penne to the skillet and toss until every piece is coated in the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.

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How Long to Prepare the Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Prep Time: Most of the prep is quick—chopping garlic and grating cheese can be done in under 10 minutes. While you’re waiting for the pasta water to boil, you can get everything else ready. If you’re using pre-grated cheese or jarred garlic, it’s even faster.

Cook Time: Once you start cooking, everything comes together in about 15–20 minutes. The sauce builds quickly, and with the pasta already cooked, it’s just a matter of mixing and letting the flavors meld. From start to finish, you’re looking at a meal ready in around 30 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

• Always salt your pasta water generously—it’s the first layer of flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and richer flavor.
• Don’t let the garlic brown; keep the heat moderate so it stays fragrant.
• Warm the cream before adding the cheese to prevent clumping.
• Stir the sauce constantly to keep it smooth and avoid scorching.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta: Penne should be al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the sauce.
• Burning the Garlic: It turns bitter fast, so watch it closely.
• Adding Cold Cheese: It can seize up; let it come to room temp or add it slowly.
• Using Low-Fat Dairy: It won’t yield the same creamy consistency.
• Forgetting the Pasta Water: That starchy water is gold for adjusting sauce texture.

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What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?

1. Garlic Bread

The classic pairing—perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

2. Grilled Chicken

Add some protein and make it a heartier meal.

3. Caesar Salad

A crisp, tangy side to contrast the rich, creamy pasta.

4. Steamed Broccoli

Light, nutritious, and adds a pop of green to your plate.

5. Roasted Tomatoes

Their sweetness and acidity cut beautifully through the creamy sauce.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let leftovers cool to room temperature before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.

Freezer: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it if needed. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Calories: ~480 per serving
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 410mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If you do prepare ahead, store the sauce and pasta separately for best texture.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Add a splash of milk or cream and reheat over low heat, stirring often.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, peas, or mushrooms work great in this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Yes, but fresh garlic will give a stronger, more aromatic flavor.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is secretly easy. It’s rich, satisfying, and incredibly adaptable—perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or anything in between. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite.

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