Top-down view of a plate of penne pasta in Parmesan garlic sauce, garnished with parsley flakes and grated Parmesan cheese. The simple, clean presentation is ready to be enjoyed on a white marble cooktop.

Silk Sheets of Savory Sin: The Penne Affair That’ll Ruin You for All Other Pastas!

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There’s a certain magic in a bowl of creamy garlic penne pasta that makes it feel like a special occasion, no matter the day. This dish, with its silky, garlic-infused sauce and perfectly cooked penne, brings a touch of indulgence to any meal. The rich creaminess of the sauce, combined with the robust flavor of garlic, creates a pasta dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Originating from the heart of Italian cooking, this creamy garlic penne pasta is a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious.

It’s the kind of meal that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience. For an added touch of perfection, pair it with a slice of homemade focaccia bread to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce.

Why does this recipe stand out? Its creamy texture and bold garlic flavor make it a favorite for anyone who loves a hearty, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering.

Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too):

  • The creamy garlic sauce is a dream come true for garlic lovers and adds a touch of luxury to every bite.
  • Despite its rich taste, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.
  • It brings a sense of comfort and indulgence, perfect for cozy dinners at home.

I’d love to hear how you enjoy this creamy garlic penne pasta, or if you have any special twists on the recipe. Share your thoughts or variations!

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

This creamy garlic Parmesan pasta is a quick, savory dish perfect for busy weeknights. With a rich, cheesy sauce and tender penne, it’s a comforting Italian classic.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8
Calories 363 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1 lb box penne or (1 lb) box penne rigate, cooked as directed, drained and kept hot
  • 2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons margarine
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth or 3/4 cup beef broth
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons parsley flakes
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
    Top-down view of a medium saucepan on a white marble cooktop over medium heat, melting 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 minced garlic cloves sizzling inside. The butter and garlic are gently cooking.
  • Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
    Top-down view of a saucepan with 2 tablespoons of flour being whisked into a butter and garlic mixture, forming a smooth roux. The white marble cooktop surrounds the scene as the mixture thickens.
  • Gradually add chicken or beef broth and milk, stirring frequently until the sauce boils and thickens.
    Top-down view of a saucepan with ¾ cup of chicken broth and ¾ cup of milk being poured into a flour mixture while whisking to prevent lumps. The sauce is smooth and starting to thicken over medium heat.
  • Add parsley, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts.
  • Toss the hot pasta with the sauce and serve immediately.
    Top-down view of a plate of penne pasta in Parmesan garlic sauce, garnished with parsley flakes and grated Parmesan cheese. The simple, clean presentation is ready to be enjoyed on a white marble cooktop.

Nutrition Facts:

NutritionValue
Calories363 kcal
Fat74g
Sodium230mg
Carbohydrates64g
Sugar0.2g
Fiber8.5g

Let Me Share What Works Best for Me!

  • Choose Your Seasonings: This garlic cream sauce is simple, but you can add extra seasonings to suit your taste. Cream sauces need a good amount of salt to avoid being bland, so don’t hesitate to add enough. Taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed!
  • Adjust the consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, just stir in a splash of the hot pasta water to thin it out. Remember, cream sauces tend to thicken more as they cool down.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will give your sauce a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic. Don’t overcook it, though—just a minute in the pan is enough to release its aromatic oils.
  • Proper Roux Technique: When you stir in the flour with the butter, make sure to cook it for a full minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. It should form a smooth, slightly golden mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a silky sauce.
  • Gradual Liquid Addition: Add the chicken or beef broth and milk gradually while stirring constantly. This helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth consistency in your sauce.
  • Seasoning Layers: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. The salt and pepper added at the end can be influenced by the saltiness of your broth and cheese, so taste your sauce and tweak it accordingly.
  • Pasta Water Trick: If your sauce gets too thick, save a little bit of the pasta water to thin it out. The starch in the pasta water can help emulsify the sauce, making it creamy and well-coated.
  • Finish with Parmesan: Add the Parmesan cheese at the end while the sauce is still warm. This allows the cheese to melt smoothly into the sauce without clumping.

By following these tips, you’ll elevate your creamy garlic penne pasta from delicious to outstanding. Enjoy your cooking!

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