If you’re looking for a dish that combines delicious flavor with simplicity, you’ve found it in this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe. This dish is not only easy to whip up after a long day, but it’s also highly customizable to suit your tastebuds. Rich, creamy, and infused with the wonderful aroma of garlic, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 400
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 550mg
Why Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a wholesome meal that you can make in under 30 minutes. This recipe provides a good balance of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the cheese, and healthy fats from the butter. Its creamy sauce means you can enjoy the comfort of a hearty meal without sacrificing nutrition. Plus, you can easily adjust the recipe to include vegetables or proteins of your choice, making it versatile for any dietary preferences.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe Step by Step
Ingredients
8 oz penne pasta, 1 teaspoon oil (to prevent sticking), 3 tablespoons butter, 3 garlic cloves, minced, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, ¾ cup chicken broth, ¾ cup milk, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, Salt and pepper to taste, 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, divided.
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it with a teaspoon of oil to prevent sticking. Set aside. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the garlic butter and stir constantly, cooking for another minute to remove the raw flour taste and create a roux base for the sauce. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk to the roux. Stir in the red pepper flakes, half of the Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens and becomes creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. Sprinkle in the remaining Parmesan cheese and mix well. Serve the pasta hot for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
For a delightful meal, serve your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. Pairing it with steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach can add a nutritious touch to your dinner. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes on top can enhance both the flavor and presentation.
How to Store Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
To store leftover Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the creaminess. You can freeze the pasta for up to two months, but be aware that the texture may change upon reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
- Ensure the butter doesn’t brown when sautéing the garlic for a milder garlic flavor.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control spiciness.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms into the dish.
- Fresh parsley adds great color and freshness; feel free to substitute with basil for a different twist.
- Always salt your pasta water; it’s the key to flavorful pasta.
Delicious Variations of Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
For those interested in variations, try adding cooked shrimp or chicken for extra protein. You can also create a vegetarian version by mixing in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Experimenting with citrus, such as a squeeze of lemon juice, can add a refreshing lift to the dish.
Make sure to give this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe a try—you’ll love its flavor and simplicity! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Cooking Essentials
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 teaspoon oil (to prevent sticking)
- 3 tablespoons butter
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped can substitute with basil
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
Cooking 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 the pasta and toss it with a teaspoon of oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the garlic butter and stir constantly, cooking for another minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk to the roux.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes, half of the Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens and becomes creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
Combining and Serving
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Sprinkle in the remaining Parmesan cheese and mix well.
- Serve the pasta hot for the best flavor and texture.
