Name: Easy Creamy Garlic Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; ¾ cup chicken broth; ¾ cup milk; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, divided

Easy Creamy Garlic Penne is the ultimate weeknight comfort food, a dish that manages to be both incredibly simple to prepare and delightfully decadent. We all crave those meals that feel like a warm hug after a long day, and this pasta certainly delivers. What makes this particular recipe so special is its ability to transform a few humble ingredients into a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. The magic lies in achieving that perfect, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to each piece of penne, infused with the irresistible aroma and flavor of garlic. It’s the kind of dish that disappears from plates in minutes, leaving everyone asking for seconds and wondering how you pulled off such a delicious masterpiece with minimal effort. Get ready to fall in love with our Easy Creamy Garlic Penne.

Ingredients:

8 oz penne pasta
3 tablespoons butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¾ cup chicken broth
¾ cup milk
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
½ cup Parmesan cheese, divided

Cooking the Penne

Boiling the Pasta

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. This is crucial for properly seasoning the pasta from the inside out. Don’t be shy with the salt; it should taste like the sea!
Once the water is boiling vigorously, add the 8 oz of penne pasta. Stir immediately to prevent the pasta from sticking together. We’re aiming for perfectly al dente pasta, which means it will have a slight bite to it.
Cook the penne according to the package directions, typically around 10-12 minutes. Taste a piece of pasta during the last few minutes of cooking to check for doneness. If you prefer your pasta softer, you can cook it for a minute or two longer.
Before draining the pasta, reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. This magical liquid is packed with starch and will help to emulsify our sauce later, making it extra creamy and luscious. Drain the remaining water from the pasta and set it aside.

Crafting the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Building the Flavor Base

While the pasta is cooking, or immediately after draining, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. The butter forms the rich foundation of our sauce.
Once the butter has melted and is slightly shimmering, add the 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor. We just want to gently toast it to release its aromatic oils.
Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the sautéed garlic and butter. This mixture is called a roux, and it’s what will thicken our sauce. Whisk the flour into the butter and garlic mixture continuously for about 1-2 minutes. Cooking the flour for this short period helps to remove any raw flour taste and creates a smooth, thick paste.

Enriching the Sauce

Gradually whisk in the ¾ cup of chicken broth, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the broth is fully incorporated into the roux and the mixture begin extracts to thicken. This gradual addition helps to create a silky-smooth sauce.
Now, slowly whisk in the ¾ cup of milk. Continue to stir or whisk over medium heat until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Don’t let the sauce come to a rapid boil, as this can cause the milk to separate. Gentle simmering is key.
Stir in the ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. These little flecks add a subtle warmth and a touch of heat that complements the richness of the sauce beautifully. You can adjust this amount based on your preference for spice.

gin extract>Bringing it All Together

Combining Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked and drained penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece of pasta evenly.
Add ¼ cup of the reserved Parmesan cheese to the sauce and pasta mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated, adding another layer of savory flavor and creaminess.
If the sauce seems too thick at this stage, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The pasta water will help to loosen the sauce and make it even more luxurious.
Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are already salty, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
Stir in the 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Serve the Easy Creamy Garlic Penne immediately, garnished with the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion:

And there you have it – your very own batch of Easy Creamy Garlic Penne! I hope you enjoyed this simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe. This dish is a testament to how minimal ingredients can create maximum flavor. The creamy sauce, infused with fragrant garlic and perfectly coating the al dente penne, is truly a weeknight warrior’s dream. It’s quick enough for a busy evening but delicious enough for guests.

For serving suggestions, consider a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to add in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some steamed broccoli for added protein and vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

Don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe. You could add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or swap out the penne for another pasta shape like farfalle or rigatoni. Fresh parsley or basil stirred in at the end adds a burst of freshness. I encourage you to make this Easy Creamy Garlic Penne your own and discover your favorite variations!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and then toss with freshly cooked pasta. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce when reheating.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If your sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water or a little extra milk or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken.