What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? A delicious homemade creamy garlic penne pasta with parmesan cheese, of course. This easy recipe relies on simple sautéing and simmering to bring out the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan. Save this idea for a quick family favorite meal.

creamy garlic penne pasta with parmesan cheese

Introduction

Creamy garlic penne pasta with parmesan cheese is a dish that embodies the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and creativity. Using everyday ingredients, this recipe transforms a basic pasta dish into a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress both family and friends. The beauty of this dish lies in its ease of preparation, requiring minimal effort for a result that’s nothing short of impressive. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their pasta game without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of garlic, parmesan cheese, and cream creates a rich and balanced flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Moreover, the ingredients are easily accessible, making this dish a practical choice for any day of the week.
• Ease of preparation: The recipe is straightforward, with steps that are easy to follow, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the ingredients and the preparation process, the end result is a dish that looks and tastes like it was prepared in a high-end restaurant, making it ideal for entertaining guests.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include penne pasta, garlic, parmesan cheese, heavy cream, olive oil, salt, and pepper. For those looking for substitutions, whole wheat penne can be used for a healthier twist, and vegetable or chicken broth can be added to the cream for extra flavor. The parmesan cheese can be substituted with other hard cheeses like pecorino or romano, although parmesan provides the most authentic flavor. Fresh garlic is a must for the best flavor, but in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, though the flavor won’t be as vibrant.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the penne.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Step 3: Pour in the heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes or until it starts to thicken slightly. Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked penne pasta to the cheese sauce, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water. Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley if desired.

Handy Tips

• Always use high-quality ingredients, especially the parmesan cheese, as it makes a significant difference in the flavor of the dish.
• Don’t overcook the pasta or the garlic, as this can lead to an unpleasant texture and flavor.
• Reserve pasta water before draining the penne, as it can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially when cooking the garlic and simmering the cream. The garlic should be cooked over medium heat to prevent burning, and the cream should be simmered over low-medium heat to avoid boiling over. The ideal temperature for simmering the cream is around 180°F to 190°F, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The sauce is ready when it has thickened slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

Crunch Factor

This dish is all about creaminess and tender pasta. To achieve the perfect texture, ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente and that the sauce is not too thick. If you prefer a bit of crunch, you can top the pasta with toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra creamy sauce, add a tablespoon of unsalted butter to the cream before simmering it. The butter will enrich the sauce and give it a luxurious feel.
• Use a high-quality parmesan cheese that’s been aged for at least 24 months. The aging process gives parmesan its distinctive nutty flavor that’s essential to this dish.
• To prevent the sauce from sticking to the pasta, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pasta water before cooking the penne. This trick will make the sauce coat the pasta more evenly.

Storage Tips

• The creamy garlic penne pasta with parmesan cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over low heat, adding a bit of cream or pasta water if the sauce has thickened too much.
• For longer storage, the dish can be frozen. However, it’s best to freeze the pasta and sauce separately to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy. Reheat the sauce and then combine it with the thawed pasta.
• When storing leftovers, use airtight containers to keep the dish fresh. For frozen storage, use freezer-safe bags or containers and label them with the date and contents.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is primarily meant to be enjoyed fresh, it can be gifted in certain forms. For example, you can package the uncooked penne pasta, a block of parmesan cheese, and a jar of homemade garlic cream sauce (made by reducing heavy cream with garlic and then cooling it) in a basket. Add a recipe card and some fresh parsley for a complete gift. Alternatively, you can cook the dish, portion it into individual servings, and freeze it. Then, package each serving in a microwave-safe container and gift it with reheating instructions.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or some dried basil for an Italian twist.
• Creative toppings: Top the pasta with grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for added protein and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative for a vegan version, or use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free diet.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of pasta water. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes or add a bit of grated parmesan cheese.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• Over/undercooking signs: The pasta should be al dente, with a bit of bite. If it’s overcooked, it will be mushy. The sauce should be simmered until it thickens slightly; if it’s undercooked, it will be too runny.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Reheat the sauce and then combine it with the thawed pasta.
• Is it gluten-free? No, traditional penne pasta contains gluten. However, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pasta.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe for a larger crowd. Just ensure you have enough pots and pans to cook everything efficiently.

Conclusion

Creamy garlic penne pasta with parmesan cheese is a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of cooking a meal that’s sure to delight everyone who tastes it. Whether you’re cooking for one or for many, this recipe is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create something truly special.