Description
This creamy garlic penne pasta recipe offers a rich and comforting dish featuring perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a smooth garlic Parmesan sauce. Made with a buttery roux, whole milk, and heavy cream, it delivers a luscious texture and savory flavor, enhanced by garlic and Italian seasoning, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the garlic and butter mixture, whisking continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to make a smooth roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Cream: Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly and has a creamy consistency.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely and the sauce to become smooth and flavorful.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Toss everything together gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a touch of freshness and color.
Notes
- For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- To make this dish lighter, substitute the heavy cream with additional milk or a lighter cream alternative.
- This recipe is best served immediately for optimal creaminess.
- The sauce can be reheated gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
