If you’ve ever dreamed of a pasta dish that hits all the right notes with velvety texture and rich flavor, then you are going to adore this Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe. It’s simple, comforting, and comes together in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or a luscious treat anytime you crave something indulgent but easy. The combination of tender penne pasta bathed in a garlicky, buttery cream sauce, punctuated by the sharp, nutty Parmesan cheese, is nothing short of heavenly. Let me take you through every step so you can recreate this favorite dish that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a star role: from the pasta providing a satisfying bite to the rich cream and Parmesan that create that signature luscious sauce, and of course, the garlic bringing in that irresistible aroma and flavor. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you get started:
- 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta: This shape holds the sauce perfectly in every bite, giving you maximum flavor with each forkful.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps cook the garlic without overpowering it.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic is essential for that punchy, aromatic base.
- 3/4 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and savory notes to balance the creaminess.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The key to achieving that smooth, indulgent texture you want in a creamy pasta sauce.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts beautifully, lending sharpness and body to the sauce.
- Black pepper (to taste): Adds just the right amount of spice and complexity to finish the dish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
Start by boiling your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, meaning it should have a slight bite to it but not be mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Getting this step right is crucial because the pasta texture provides the perfect canvas for that creamy, garlicky sauce to cling to.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic in Butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until smooth and bubbly. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute. The garlic should become fragrant but not browned, as you want its flavor to be delicately sweet and aromatic. This step lays the fragrant foundation for your sauce, so take a moment to enjoy that incredible scent filling your kitchen.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently as the mixture begins to warm up. Bring it to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 7 to 9 minutes. This simmering reduces the sauce by about 60%, concentrating the flavors and thickening it naturally. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent burning on the bottom.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan and Combine
Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It melts smoothly into the creamy mixture, thickening the sauce further and infusing it with a sharp, savory kick. Next, add your cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is luxuriously coated. If the sauce is still on the thinner side, pop it back on medium heat and cook gently until it reaches the silky consistency you desire.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finish your Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe by seasoning it with freshly ground black pepper to your taste. The pepper adds a mild heat that balances the richness perfectly. Give it one last toss and get ready to enjoy a bowl of comfort that tastes like it took hours but really came together in no time at all!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even more, fresh garnishes are your best friends. Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. A little more grated Parmesan on top never hurts either, adding that extra cheesy goodness. If you want a bit of texture, toasted pine nuts or crispy breadcrumbs are delicious toppings.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add a vibrant contrast to the richness of the pasta. For something heartier, garlic bread or a crusty baguette is ideal for mopping up every last drop of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, consider serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. Another fun idea is layering the pasta in a shallow, oven-safe dish, topping with extra cheese, and broiling briefly for a bubbly golden crust. This Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe is versatile, so feel free to get creative with presentation to impress your guests or just treat yourself.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep nicely for up to 3 days. Since the sauce is cream-based, it’s best to consume it relatively soon for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing cream sauces can sometimes affect texture, but if you want to freeze this pasta, portion it out and wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When thawing, do it slowly in the fridge to help maintain the sauce consistency as best as possible.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high power as it can cause the sauce to separate. Taking your time to reheat keeps the texture creamy and delightful.
FAQs
Can I use other pasta shapes for this Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works brilliantly because it holds sauce well, feel free to substitute with fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the chicken broth?
Yes, you can swap chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can try substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and using a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The texture and flavor will change, but it’s possible to make a tasty dairy-free version.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmering the sauce longer is the best way to thicken it naturally. If you need it quicker, adding a small slurry of cornstarch mixed with cold water can help, but use sparingly to avoid a gummy texture.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is preferable for that fragrant flavor, but in a pinch, garlic powder works. Use about 1/2 teaspoon, and add it while cooking the butter, but reduce any additional seasoning to avoid overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe is truly a treasure to have in your culinary arsenal. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you get a dish that feels indulgent and homemade. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a loved one, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied sighs around the table. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and whip up this silky, garlicky pasta delight—you deserve it!
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Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and creamy garlic pasta made with penne, simmered in a savory butter, garlic, chicken broth, and cream sauce, finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a comforting and delicious meal ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta (~2 cups)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a medium pot, boil water and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Simmer sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer and reduce for 7-9 minutes until the volume decreases by about 60%, thickening the sauce.
- Add cheese and combine: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently until well coated. If the sauce appears too runny, return to medium heat briefly to thicken it further while stirring.
- Season and serve: Season the pasta generously with black pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy garlic goodness.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- You can add cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor experience.
- If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
- Adjust black pepper according to your spice preference.
