Name: Creamy Penne Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-488688H39M36S
Total time: PT-488688H39M36S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound penne pasta; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Creamy Penne Pasta for its incredible richness and smooth texture. The combination of creamy sauce and al dente penne creates a satisfying bite with every forkful. The Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, savory note that perfectly balances the creaminess. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, and it can be elevated with your choice of protein or veggies. Whether served on its own or as a side dish, this pasta is sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

1 pound penne pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Make the creamy sauce: While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden (be careful not to burn the garlic).
Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Add the Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve and garnish: Serve the creamy penne pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 5 minutes, with cooking time for the pasta and sauce taking around 15-20 minutes. The total time is approximately 25-30 minutes, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Variations

Add chicken: Top the creamy pasta with grilled or pan-seared chicken breast for added protein. You can also mix in shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
Vegetarian version: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Spicy version: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or toss in some sliced jalapeños.
Lemon: Stir in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice or zest for a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Creamy Penne Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is creamy again. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. If you use half-and-half, consider adding a little more butter or Parmesan cheese to make up for the reduced creaminess.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle. The creamy sauce will pair well with any pasta.

3. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

While creamy pasta is best served fresh, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop with a little extra cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.

4. Can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free penne pasta in this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may differ from regular pasta.

5. How can I make this dish more flavorful?

You can add extra herbs, such as basil, thyme, or oregano, for more depth of flavor. A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the dish.

6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes work wonderfully in this creamy pasta. Sauté or steam the vegetables and add them to the pasta before serving.

Conclusion

Creamy Penne Pasta is the perfect comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Whether you enjoy it on its own or customize it with your favorite proteins and vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. With its simple ingredients and quick prep time, it’s an easy weeknight meal that delivers on taste and satisfaction. Enjoy the creamy goodness of this pasta, and feel free to get creative with add-ins to make it your own!