When I want something creamy, garlicky, and deeply satisfying without spending an hour in the kitchen, creamy garlic penne pasta is my go-to. It’s the kind of quick weeknight dinner that delivers every time—rich, buttery garlic cream sauce wrapped around perfectly cooked penne pasta, all in one pot. It’s one of those comfort meals that feels indulgent without being over the top, and I’ve cooked it more times than I can count. Whether I’m making dinner for two, hosting a casual get-together, or just feeding myself after a long day, this pasta never misses.
This dish is all about balance: al dente penne pasta, a velvety garlic cream sauce that hugs every bite, and just the right amount of fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese to round out the flavors. It’s deeply flavorful without being heavy, and it all comes together in about 30 minutes with basic ingredients you probably already have on hand. Over the years, I’ve customized this garlic butter pasta for everything from meatless Mondays to creamy pasta dinners with chicken or shrimp, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
What I love most about this creamy garlic penne pasta recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Want to keep it vegetarian? Just add spinach or roasted veggies. Looking for a protein boost? Toss in grilled chicken or seared shrimp. Trying to lighten it up? Use milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. It’s flexible, fast, and seriously comforting.
If you’re craving something cozy but don’t want to compromise on nutrition, this pasta also fits the bill. According to Healthline, pasta can absolutely be part of a healthy diet—especially when paired with wholesome fats like olive oil and nutrient-rich toppings like garlic, fresh herbs, and aged cheese.
Let’s get into it—because dinner’s about to be ridiculously good.
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta (30-Minute One-Pot Comfort Food)
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon juice optional, for balance
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the PastaBoil salted water and cook the penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Step 2: Sauté GarlicIn a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant—don’t let it brown.
- Step 3: Make the SaucePour in cream and milk. Whisk well and let it simmer gently until slightly thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
- Step 4: Add CheeseStir in grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Combine with PastaToss the cooked penne directly into the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if it needs loosening.
- Step 6: Garnish and ServeTop with parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve hot with extra Parmesan.
Notes
Chef’s Secret Tips
- Infuse the Garlic: Let the minced garlic gently sizzle in butter over low heat for 1–2 minutes—don’t rush it. That slow sauté builds a rich, aromatic base.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Save ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. A splash of it helps loosen and silk up the sauce if it thickens too much.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s smoothness.
- Finish with Lemon Zest: A pinch of lemon zest right before serving brightens up the entire dish and balances the richness.
- Serve Immediately: Creamy garlic pasta is best hot off the stove. If you need to reheat, do it gently with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
Recipe Overview
- Course: Weeknight Dinner / Comfort Food / Pasta Main
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Skill Level: Easy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 generous portions
Nutritional Snapshot
- Calories: ~490 per serving
- Protein: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Calcium: ~180mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Based on standard ingredients and portion sizes. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat dairy and add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra fiber.
What It Costs to Make
- Penne Pasta (12 oz): $1.25
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): $1.50
- Parmesan Cheese (3/4 cup shredded): $2.00
- Garlic (4 cloves): $0.50
- Butter (2 tbsp): $0.60
- Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper: $0.50
- Fresh Parsley (optional garnish): $0.65
- Total Cost: ~$7.00
- Cost Per Serving: ~$1.75
Big flavor doesn’t mean big spending.
Where This Recipe Came From
This creamy garlic penne pasta is a nostalgic twist on the Alfredo-style pasta I grew up eating—but it’s been simplified and made just a little lighter for everyday comfort. I first whipped it up during my college days, armed with nothing more than a single saucepan, a pack of penne, and a serious craving for something cozy and satisfying. Back then, I didn’t have access to fancy ingredients, but I did have garlic, butter, and a small carton of cream—and that was enough to spark what’s now become one of my favorite weeknight pasta recipes.
Over the years, I’ve refined the ratio of cream, butter, and fresh garlic to create that just-right flavor—velvety and rich without being heavy. The sauce clings to the penne beautifully, and every bite brings that garlicky warmth and cheesy finish that reminds me why I keep making this dish again and again. Whether I’m making dinner after a long day or prepping a quick comfort food pasta dinner for friends, this is the kind of meal that brings people together.
What started as a dorm room experiment has become a cornerstone of my home kitchen—proof that you don’t need a lot of ingredients (or time) to make something truly memorable. If you’ve ever been curious about how to make a simple easy garlic cream sauce for pasta that delivers on both flavor and comfort, this dish is the answer.
Why It’s Worth Making Again
Creamy, But Not Overwhelming
This creamy garlic penne pasta strikes the perfect balance between richness and comfort. The garlic cream sauce is smooth and luxurious without being too heavy. A touch of lemon juice and freshly chopped parsley cuts through the richness, making each bite feel fresh rather than overly indulgent. It’s a comfort food pasta dish you can enjoy without the post-dinner slump.
Fast, One-Pot Weeknight Dinner
Let’s be honest—after a long day, no one wants to juggle five pans and 40 ingredients. This easy creamy pasta recipe comes together in just 30 minutes using one pot, a strainer, and a whisk. It’s the kind of meal I reach for when I want something warm and filling without creating a pile of dishes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this weeknight pasta dinner is a stress-free win.
Flexible & Family Friendly
This recipe is endlessly customizable. Toss in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, steamed broccoli, sweet peas, or roasted mushrooms—whatever fits your mood or what’s left in the fridge. It’s also a kid-friendly pasta dinner that even the pickiest eaters will devour. And for households with dietary needs, you can swap the pasta for gluten-free or use dairy alternatives without losing that creamy texture.
Real Ingredients, No Heavy Fillers
Unlike boxed mixes or canned sauces, this garlic penne pasta relies on a few simple pantry staples: butter, garlic, milk, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. There’s no need for artificial thickeners or sodium-loaded sauces. According to Cleveland Clinic, using real ingredients like butter and cream in moderation can be part of a heart-conscious and satisfying meal plan.
So whether you’re building a simple garlic cream sauce from scratch or just need a trusty recipe that works every time, this dish checks every box—flavor, ease, flexibility, and comfort.
Best Shared During
Casual Date Nights
When you’re aiming to impress without the stress, this creamy garlic penne pasta is the move. The silky garlic cream sauce feels indulgent without being over-the-top, and it pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine or a sparkling rosé. Light a candle, turn on a playlist, and serve it with a side of crusty bread or a tossed arugula salad. It’s an easy pasta dinner that sets the mood without requiring you to babysit the stove. Bonus: garlic breath never mattered when the meal’s this good.
Cozy Family Dinners
This is the pasta I make when I want everyone at the table, phones down, enjoying each other—and their food. It’s a reliable family pasta night recipe that disappears fast, whether it’s kids loading up bowls or adults sneaking seconds straight from the pot. Make a double batch and store leftovers for lunch the next day—it reheats beautifully. It’s meals like this that turn ordinary evenings into small traditions.
Potluck or Crowd-Pleasers
Need something that’ll hold up and still wow a crowd? Just pour this garlic cream penne pasta into a baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan, and pop it under the broiler for a melty, bubbly finish. Whether it’s a potluck at work or a neighborhood dinner party, this pasta bake variation is easy to transport and even easier to love. According to WebMD, dishes that incorporate real cheese can also help boost your calcium intake—just one more reason this one’s a favorite.
Midweek Comfort Fix
We all have those days where the only cure is creamy garlic pasta for dinner. The kind that’s warm, rich, garlicky, and hits the spot in one bite. This recipe is made for those nights—when you’re tired, hungry, and need something fast that tastes like it took all day. From pantry to plate in 30 minutes flat, it’s the kind of meal that makes a Wednesday feel like a Friday.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon juice (optional, for balance)
Ingredient Highlights
Penne Pasta
A ridged pasta that holds sauce beautifully. You can also use rotini or rigatoni for variation.
Garlic (Fresh, Not Powdered)
Use fresh garlic cloves—sautéed just right, they add deep, caramelized flavor to the cream.
Heavy Cream + Whole Milk
A combo that gives you rich, silky texture without being overly heavy.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce. Grate it fresh for best results.
Butter + Olive Oil
Butter gives richness; olive oil raises the smoke point and balances flavor.
How It’s Done
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil salted water and cook the penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant—don’t let it brown.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Pour in cream and milk. Whisk well and let it simmer gently until slightly thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Stir in grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Toss the cooked penne directly into the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if it needs loosening.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve hot with extra Parmesan.
Derek’s Pro Tips
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for a heartier meal.
- Control Thickness: Simmer longer for thicker sauce or add pasta water for a thinner coating.
- Balance the Richness: Lemon juice or zest cuts through the cream and brings freshness.
- Don’t Skip Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic in jars won’t deliver the same depth.
Make It Yours
Lighten It Up
If you’re looking to enjoy this creamy garlic penne pasta while keeping it a little lighter, you’ve got options. Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, or go dairy-free by using unsweetened almond milk or oat milk. These substitutions cut back on saturated fat without losing the luscious texture you love in a garlic cream sauce pasta. According to Healthline, many plant-based milks still deliver calcium and vitamin D, making them solid alternatives in savory dishes like this.
Spice It Up
Want to add a little fire to this cozy favorite? Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne, or finely diced jalapeño right into the butter and garlic base. It gives the sauce a nice heat that balances beautifully with the creamy texture and turns this dish into a bold weeknight pasta you’ll crave on chilly nights. This version is especially great when you’re in the mood for something with just a little kick.
Herb Boost
Herbs are a quick way to give depth and freshness to this already flavorful dish. Add a teaspoon of dried basil, oregano, or thyme during the simmering process. Or toss in chopped fresh parsley or chives just before serving for brightness and color. These classic Italian herbs complement the creamy garlic sauce perfectly and turn this from basic comfort into something that feels gourmet.
Cheese Twist
Parmesan is the go-to, but if you’re feeling adventurous—or simply out of Parm—don’t hesitate to sub in Pecorino Romano for a saltier edge, or Asiago for a more robust, nutty finish. These sharper cheeses bring a bold character to the garlic Parmesan penne pasta and let you play with the richness of the dish. You can even blend cheeses for a more complex, layered flavor.
Keep It Cozy
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat
Warm on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce.
Freezing
Not recommended—cream-based sauces tend to separate.
Perfect Pairings
- Honey Chipotle Grilled Chicken Skewers
- Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls with Peanut Sauce
- Rosemary Garlic Steak Kebabs
Here’s even more crave-worthy recipes:
Real Questions, Real Answers
Is creamy garlic penne pasta vegetarian?
Yes—this creamy garlic penne pasta is naturally vegetarian as long as you skip meat-based add-ins like chicken or shrimp. To make it fully vegetarian, be sure to use vegetarian-friendly Parmesan, as traditional Parmigiano-Reggiano contains animal rennet. You can also opt for cheeses labeled as “microbial” or “rennet-free.”
Can I make this creamy garlic penne pasta without heavy cream?
Absolutely. You can substitute with half-and-half, whole milk, or even unsweetened almond milk to lighten the sauce. For thickness, stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in cold milk. While the texture may be slightly less rich, it still delivers that satisfying creamy bite with fewer calories. According to Cleveland Clinic, swapping full-fat dairy with lower-fat versions can support heart health while maintaining flavor.
What’s the best pasta for garlic cream sauce?
Penne pasta is ideal because the ridges and hollow centers hold onto the creamy garlic sauce beautifully. However, other great options include rotini, fettuccine, or rigatoni. If you love twirly pasta, even spaghetti works in a pinch—but chunkier pasta types offer better sauce distribution for a more balanced bite.
How do I avoid curdling the sauce?
This is one of the most common questions with garlic cream sauce pasta. Keep your heat at medium-low, and avoid letting the cream boil after it’s added. Whisk continuously when incorporating dairy, and never add cold cream to a hot pan—temper it by warming gently or stirring it into a bit of the hot pasta water first.
Is creamy garlic penne pasta healthy?
This dish is on the indulgent side, but there are ways to lighten it up. Use low-fat milk, reduce the butter slightly, and add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for fiber and nutrients. According to WebMD, Parmesan cheese is rich in calcium and protein, making it a smart flavor booster when used in moderation.
Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
Yes. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked or leftover pasta works well—just be sure to warm it slightly before mixing it into the hot sauce to prevent sticking or clumping. Add a splash of pasta water or milk to help the sauce coat evenly.
How do I make creamy garlic penne pasta gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the regular penne with a gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or lentils. Most gluten-free pastas cook quickly and absorb sauce just as well, especially when cooked al dente. Always check that your Parmesan and any thickeners are certified gluten-free, too.
Can I add protein to creamy garlic penne pasta?
Definitely. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, pan-seared shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits. If you’re keeping it meatless, toss in some white beans or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty protein boost.
Can I freeze creamy garlic penne pasta?
Technically, yes—but creamy sauces can separate upon thawing. For best results, freeze the cooked pasta and sauce separately. Reheat slowly over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of milk or broth to restore smoothness.
Final Stir
There’s something timeless about a bowl of creamy garlic penne pasta. It’s the kind of comfort food that doesn’t need dressing up—just a fork, an appetite, and maybe a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. What started as a late-night craving back in my college days has become one of my most reliable, soul-satisfying meals. It’s rich without being heavy, simple but full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable to whatever I’ve got in the fridge.
Whether I’m cooking for myself after a long shift, prepping an easy dinner for friends, or whipping up something cozy for a Sunday night, this garlic cream sauce always hits the spot. And every time I serve it, someone always asks for seconds—or the recipe. That’s when I know it’s more than just pasta. It’s a dish that sticks with you.
Keep this one in your back pocket for the nights when you need something fast, filling, and full of flavor. You won’t regret it.
“Creamy, garlicky, and ready in 30 minutes—this pasta is the kind of comfort food I come back to again and again.” — Molly
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Rich, buttery garlic cream sauce coats every bite of al dente penne in this quick, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy enough for any weeknight and indulgent enough for weekends.
