Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

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Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a comfort food masterpiece that combines simplicity with bold, indulgent flavor. Each tender bite of penne is wrapped in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce that’s bursting with savory goodness. Perfectly seasoned with a sprinkle of black pepper and fresh herbs, this dish offers a restaurant-quality experience right from your kitchen.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or a quick lunch that feels like a treat, this pasta is a foolproof choice. The creamy sauce clings to the ridged pasta, soaking into every groove, while the garlic adds a warm, aromatic kick that elevates the dish to something unforgettable. It’s fast, easy, and bound to become a favorite.

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Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (warm)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

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Step 1: Cook the Penne

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. The aroma should be rich and inviting—this is the flavor foundation of your sauce.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed garlic and stir continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking as you go to keep the sauce smooth. Add the heavy cream and continue to stir for 3–4 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken.

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Step 4: Add the Cheese and Seasoning

Once the sauce is thick and silky, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne to the skillet and gently toss to coat each piece in the creamy garlic sauce. Let it simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Plate the creamy garlic penne pasta while it’s hot. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra crack of black pepper if you like a little more bite. Serve immediately and enjoy every delicious forkful.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftover Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

For freezing, it’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta if possible. If already combined, freeze the whole dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~520
• Protein: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g

Please note, these values can vary depending on portion size and specific brands of ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

### 1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti work well with this creamy garlic sauce. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

### 2. How can I make this dairy-free?

You can swap the butter for a plant-based version, use unsweetened almond or oat milk, and opt for dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives.

### 3. What protein can I add to this dish?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu are excellent protein additions. Just cook separately and mix in before serving.

### 4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

### 5. Why is my sauce too thick or lumpy?

Make sure to add milk gradually while whisking continuously. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a bit of the reserved pasta water or extra milk.

### 6. What herbs go well in this pasta?

Parsley is classic, but basil, thyme, or a pinch of Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor beautifully.

### 7. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

### 8. Is this spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add red pepper flakes or cracked black pepper if you want a little kick.

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