If you have a soft spot for effortless comfort food that tastes like it took hours to make, then this Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender penne pasta enveloped in a rich, silky sauce that bursts with the aromatic goodness of garlic and the sharp, nutty flavor of freshly grated Parmesan. It’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend indulgence. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up, making it a versatile staple you’ll want to return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe lies in a handful of straightforward ingredients that each add their own special touch. From the pasta that forms the perfect base to the luscious cream that gives the dish its signature texture, every component plays a crucial role in creating balance and flavor.
- 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta: Choose quality penne for its ability to hold the sauce beautifully in its ridges.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps mellow the garlic’s sharpness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor that gives the sauce its irresistible aroma and zest.
- 3/4 cup chicken broth: Provides a savory base that keeps the sauce light but flavorful.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy, dreamy texture that makes this dish so comforting.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melted into the sauce for a salty, nutty finish that ties everything together.
- Black pepper, to taste: Adds just the right amount of warmth and kick.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking your penne pasta according to the package instructions. Getting the pasta perfectly al dente is key because you want it to hold up nicely without getting mushy once mixed with the sauce. After draining, set it aside while you prepare the delectable garlic cream sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook it for about a minute until its fragrance fills your kitchen but before it starts to brown or bite into bitterness. This step is essential because it unlocks the garlic’s sweet and mellow flavor, forming the base of your sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Next, pour in the chicken broth along with the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it bubble away for around 7 to 9 minutes until the liquid reduces by roughly 60 percent. This reduction intensifies flavors and thickens the sauce naturally, giving it that luscious consistency that clings to every pasta nook and cranny.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, watching it melt smoothly into the sauce. Then add your drained pasta, tossing gently to coat every piece. If you find the sauce a bit thin, return the skillet to medium heat and simmer gently until it thickens to the perfect creaminess.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finish by seasoning your creation with black pepper according to your taste. This final touch adds warmth and depth, balancing the richness of the cream and cheese. Your Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe is now ready to serve and savor!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and a subtle herbaceous note that complements the richness of the sauce. A light dusting of extra Parmesan never hurts, either, to amp up the cheesiness and add some visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy dish with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes a fantastic accompaniment, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with a roasted cherry tomato medley or sautéed mushrooms to add texture and an earthy contrast. For a fun twist, try decorating the plate with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances the creaminess beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pasta will absorb some sauce, so it’s normal for it to thicken and stiffen a bit in the fridge.
Freezing
While the creamy sauce is best fresh, you can freeze the pasta for up to one month. Be sure to cool it completely, place it in a freezer-safe container, and leave some room for expansion. Reheat gently to prevent the cream from separating.
Reheating
Reheat your Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of broth or cream to restore that silky texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause the sauce to become grainy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully here, feel free to experiment with fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly with different pasta shapes.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it fully vegetarian without sacrificing flavor. The creamy garlic sauce remains just as delicious.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor will change but can still be wonderfully rich and satisfying.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce further, simply continue simmering it over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. Adding a small sprinkle of cornstarch dissolved in water can also help if you’re in a hurry.
What wine pairs well with creamy garlic pasta?
A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a light Sauvignon Blanc complements the creaminess and garlic without overpowering the dish, making for a lovely dinner pairing.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, it’s perfect for when you want comfort food without the fuss. Go ahead and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
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 is a quick and indulgent dish featuring penne pasta tossed in a rich sauce made from butter, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a comforting weeknight meal 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 package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 7-9 minutes until the liquid reduces by about 60%, thickening the sauce.
- Add the cheese and combine: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly. Add the cooked pasta and toss well to coat. If the sauce is still too runny, return to medium heat and cook briefly until it thickens to your liking.
- Season and serve: Season the creamy pasta generously with black pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy your rich, garlic-infused pasta dish.
Notes
- You can substitute penne with another pasta shape like fettuccine or rigatoni if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor results.
- Adjust garlic quantity depending on your taste preference.
- Leftover pasta sauce can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling.
