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
Scale
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.
