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Creamy Penne Pasta

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Creamy Penne Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish made with tender penne pasta, a creamy sauce of butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s the perfect comforting meal, easily customizable with proteins or vegetables, ideal for a cozy dinner.

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)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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).
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Serve the creamy penne pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.You can add grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or vegetables for additional flavor and texture.For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/creamy-penne-pasta/