Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 2 tbsp butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a rich, indulgent dish made with tender penne noodles coated in a velvety garlic cream sauce. It’s comforting, full of flavor, and quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple ingredients come together to create something so satisfying. The creamy garlic sauce clings perfectly to every bite of pasta, and I can dress it up with veggies, chicken, or shrimp when I want a little extra. It’s one of those recipes that feels restaurant-worthy, but I can make it in under 30 minutes right at home.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Penne pasta
Butter
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt
Black pepper
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I start by cooking the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, I melt butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until it’s fragrant but not browned.
I pour in the heavy cream, bring it to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
Then I stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
I season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if I want a little heat.
I add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
I garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately while it’s hot and creamy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so I can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for added protein and texture.
For a richer flavor, I use half cream and half milk, or add a touch of cream cheese to the sauce.
I swap penne for fettuccine or rotini depending on what I have in the pantry.
A handful of baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes adds a fresh twist that I really enjoy.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, stirring often to keep the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, I’ve used whole milk or a mix of milk and cream. The sauce is a bit lighter but still tasty.

What type of Parmesan works best?

I prefer freshly grated Parmesan because it melts better and gives the sauce a richer flavor. Pre-shredded varieties don’t melt as smoothly.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it’s vegetarian as written. I just make sure to use vegetarian-friendly cheese if needed.

Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?

I don’t recommend freezing cream-based sauces, as they can separate when thawed and reheated.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

I make sure to simmer the sauce gently and avoid high heat once I’ve added the cream and cheese. Stirring constantly helps keep it smooth.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is one of those go-to comfort dishes I turn to when I want something fast, flavorful, and utterly delicious. With its silky garlic-infused sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a simple yet impressive meal I’m always happy to make—and eat.