Description

This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta recipe features tender penne pasta tossed in a luscious garlic-infused creamy sauce made from butter, olive oil, garlic, and a rich combination of whole milk and heavy cream. Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, while fresh parsley provides a bright finish. Perfect as a comforting main dish or a satisfying side, it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive for guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 ounces penne pasta

Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large skillet, melt the butter together with olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but not browned, being careful to prevent burning.
Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the garlic mixture and whisk continuously for about 1 minute. This helps cook out the raw flour taste and forms the base for the creamy sauce.
Add Dairy: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring the mixture stays smooth without lumps. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring often, for 4–5 minutes or until the sauce thickens sufficiently.
Flavor the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta into the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Allow it to simmer for 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

For extra protein, add cooked chicken or shrimp when tossing the pasta with the sauce.
To make a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with additional whole milk.
This dish works well as both a hearty main course or a rich side dish alongside grilled meats or vegetables.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 520
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 410mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 65mg