Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta – Creamy Pasta Recipes You’ll Crave
This creamy garlic penne pasta wraps you in comfort with every bite. If you’ve had one of those days where nothing seems to go your way, this dish feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
We all need a few go-to creamy pasta recipes for nights when our brains check out but our appetites don’t. This is one of those—rich, garlicky, and wonderfully easy. You don’t need a culinary degree or a cabinet full of fancy ingredients. Just a pot, a pan, and a craving for something soul-soothing.
I usually throw this together when I’m in between laundry loads and wondering why the dog looks guilty. It’s quick enough for a weeknight, but good enough to make you pause and savor. Packed with flavors that could rival some creamy soup recipes easy enough for a beginner, this pasta earns a spot in your weekly rotation. It’s a little indulgent, a lot satisfying, and sneaks into the category of healthy pasta recipes when you pair it with a simple salad. We’re calling that a win.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the butter and let it melt completely. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper and cook until the sauce thickens, stirring frequently.
- Add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted and well combined.
- Toss the cooked penne pasta into the sauce and stir until coated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if using and serve warm.