Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta (30-Minute One-Pot Comfort Food)
This creamy garlic penne pasta is a one-pot wonder loaded with flavor, made from real ingredients like butter, garlic, milk, and Parmesan. Rich, simple, and ready in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights, date nights, or cozy Sunday dinners. Add chicken, veggies, or keep it meat-free—either way, this comfort dish satisfies every time.
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.