Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a dish that embodies comfort and indulgence in every bite, showcasing a perfect balance between rich creaminess and robust garlic flavor.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Spoon
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces Penne pasta Perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
Sauce Base
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter Adds rich flavor to the sauce.
- 6 cloves Garlic Minced for robust flavor.
- 1 cup Heavy cream Key ingredient for creaminess.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for depth of flavor.
Seasonings
- Salt To taste.
- Black pepper To taste.
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley Chopped, optional for garnish.
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Penne Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- 2. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- 3. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- 4. Add the Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- 5. Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- 6. Season the Sauce: Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- 7. Combine with Pasta: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce. Add more reserved pasta water if necessary.
- 8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
This dish can be customized with added proteins or vegetables, and is easily scalable for larger gatherings.