If you’re on the lookout for a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together in a flash, this Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. Velvety, buttery, and bursting with fragrant garlic, every bite melts in your mouth, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat. The blend of tender penne pasta with a luscious parmesan-infused cream sauce creates a harmony of flavors that’s utterly irresistible. Trust me, once you try this creamy garlic pasta recipe, you’ll keep coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this creamy garlic pasta recipe is simple but plays a crucial role in building the flavors and textures that make the dish shine. From the rich butter to the sharp parmesan, each component adds its own magic touch.
- 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta: The perfect shape to catch every bit of sauce in its tubes.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps mellow the garlic’s sharpness.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): The star of the dish, infusing everything with a deep, aromatic flavor.
- 3/4 cup chicken broth: Provides a savory base and keeps the sauce from becoming too heavy.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that irresistibly silky and thick texture we all crave in creamy pasta.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty finish that ties the sauce together beautifully.
- Black pepper (to taste): Adds a touch of heat and rounds out the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside — this simple step ensures your pasta keeps that nice, firm bite even after it gets coated in sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s melted and smooth, add in the minced garlic. Let it cook for about one minute until aromatic but not browned, because burnt garlic can turn bitter and overpower the dish. This step creates a fragrant base that is absolutely essential for the sauce’s flavor profile.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it bubble and simmer for around 7 to 9 minutes, allowing it to reduce by about 60 percent. This reduction concentrates the flavors and thickens the sauce so it clings beautifully to each pasta piece.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Combine
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Then, add the cooked penne and toss everything together to ensure every nook and cranny of the pasta is coated with that creamy, garlicky goodness. If the sauce still feels a bit loose, pop the pan back on medium heat for a minute or two until it thickens up.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, season with freshly cracked black pepper to your taste. The pepper’s slight kick balances the richness beautifully. And there you have it — your homemade creamy garlic pasta recipe is ready to delight!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise. You can also add an extra grating of parmesan on top for that irresistible cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy garlic pasta recipe with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to lighten up the meal. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also works wonders, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the creamy garlic pasta recipe in small ramekins or pasta bowls for an elegant touch. You can even toss in some sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken on top to create a heartier entrée that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy garlic pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools before sealing to keep the sauce creamy and fresh.
Freezing
If you want to freeze it, keep in mind that cream-based sauces can separate once thawed. However, you can freeze the pasta without the sauce and make a fresh cream sauce when you’re ready to eat to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
When reheating, use low heat and stir frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help restore that silky consistency. Microwaving on medium power in short bursts while stirring works well too.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne works great because it holds the sauce well, but feel free to use fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti based on your preference. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this creamy garlic pasta recipe?
Yes! Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth, and you have a delicious vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as creamy and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try swapping heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. The flavor will be different but still tasty and creamy.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Reducing the sauce gently on the stove helps it thicken naturally. You could also mix a little cornstarch with cold water and add it while simmering if you want a quicker thickening method.
Can I add protein to this creamy garlic pasta recipe?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms make perfect additions to turn this pasta into a full meal with extra texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This creamy garlic pasta recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to bring warmth and comfort to the table, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or inviting friends over, this recipe is a surefire way to impress and satisfy. So, grab your skillet, and give it a whirl — your new favorite pasta night is just around the corner!
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Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy garlic pasta recipe is a quick and comforting dish featuring perfectly cooked penne tossed in a luscious garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an ideal meal for a cozy weeknight dinner for two.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta (~2 cups)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a medium pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Create the garlic base: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, releasing its delicious aroma.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 7 to 9 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce by about 60%, which thickens the mixture and concentrates the flavors.
- Add cheese and combine: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat evenly. If the sauce is still a bit runny, return the pan to medium heat and cook gently until it thickens to your liking.
- Season and serve: Finish the dish with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the rich, creamy flavors.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, loosen it with a splash of pasta water or additional cream.
- To add a bit of color and freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or basil.
- This recipe is best served immediately as the sauce thickens upon standing.
