Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta (Ultra Creamy, Easy, & Restaurant-Style)

If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly, Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the answer. This dish delivers everything we love about classic Italian-inspired comfort food: tender penne pasta, a luxuriously smooth garlic cream sauce, and rich Parmesan flavor in every bite. It’s cozy enough for a quiet weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to serve to guests when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta so irresistible is its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples—garlic, butter, milk, cream, and cheese—you can create a sauce that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen. The garlic infuses the cream with deep, savory flavor, while the Parmesan adds a salty, nutty richness that coats each piece of pasta beautifully.

This recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or expensive ingredients to make an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to a bowl of creamy pasta goodness, this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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Why Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Is a Timeless Favorite

There’s a reason creamy pasta dishes have stood the test of time. They’re comforting, filling, and endlessly customizable. Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta takes that classic appeal and elevates it with bold garlic flavor and a perfectly balanced cream sauce that’s rich without being overwhelming.

Unlike tomato-based sauces, a garlic cream sauce feels luxurious and soothing. It pairs beautifully with penne pasta, whose ridges trap the sauce and ensure every bite is coated in creamy goodness. This makes penne the ideal pasta shape for this recipe—it’s sturdy, satisfying, and perfect for creamy sauces.

Another reason this dish remains so popular is its versatility. You can serve it as a standalone vegetarian meal, or bulk it up with grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables. It works equally well as a casual dinner or as a refined side dish for special occasions.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without a long prep time.

2. Simple Ingredients

No fancy or hard-to-find items here. Everything needed for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is likely already in your kitchen.

3. Rich, Creamy Texture

The combination of milk, heavy cream, and Parmesan creates a sauce that’s smooth, velvety, and perfectly thick.

4. Family-Friendly

Garlic butter flavors and creamy pasta are universally loved, making this dish a hit with both kids and adults.

5. Customizable

From protein add-ins to flavor variations, this recipe adapts easily to whatever you have on hand.

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Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta (With Tips)

Penne Pasta (12 oz)

Penne is ideal because its ridges hold onto the creamy garlic sauce. You can substitute with rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli if needed.

Tip: Always cook pasta in well-salted water. This is your only chance to season the pasta itself.

Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons)

Butter adds richness and forms the base of the sauce.

Tip: Unsalted butter allows better control over the salt level of the final dish.

Garlic (4 cloves, minced)

Garlic is the star of this dish. Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.

Tip: Don’t rush the garlic—cook it gently so it becomes fragrant without browning.

All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons)

Flour helps thicken the sauce by creating a roux.

Tip: Whisk continuously to avoid a raw flour taste or lumps.

Whole Milk (2 cups)

Milk provides creaminess without making the sauce too heavy.

Heavy Cream (1 cup)

Heavy cream gives the sauce its luxurious texture.

Tip: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.

Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated)

Parmesan adds saltiness, depth, and a slightly nutty flavor.

Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded cheese.

Salt & Black Pepper

Essential for balancing the flavors.

Italian Seasoning (Optional)

Adds subtle herbal notes.

Fresh Parsley (For Garnish)

A pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Pro Tip: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.

Important: Garlic burns quickly. Keep the heat moderate and stir constantly.

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Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the garlic butter mixture. Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.

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Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps and creates a smooth sauce.

Cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

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Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is silky smooth.

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Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss gently until every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy garlic sauce.

If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

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Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

• Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor.

• Whisk constantly when adding liquids to keep the sauce smooth.

• Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente is key.

• Add cheese gradually to prevent clumping.

• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

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Delicious Variations to Try

Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta

Add grilled or pan-seared chicken breast slices for a protein-packed meal.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Sauté shrimp separately and fold them in at the end.

Mushroom Garlic Cream Pasta

Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, vegetarian upgrade.

Spinach Garlic Cream Pasta

Stir in fresh spinach until wilted for added color and nutrients.

Spicy Garlic Cream Pasta

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.

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What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

• Garlic bread or breadsticks

• Fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, zucchini)

• Grilled chicken or steak on the side

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Note: Cream sauces may thicken when chilled—this is normal.

Print

Nutrition Information (Approximate, Per Serving)

• Calories: 560 kcal

• Protein: 18 g

• Fat: 32 g

• Carbohydrates: 50 g

• Saturated Fat: 18 g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If making ahead, reheat gently with extra milk.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Cream sauces don’t freeze well, as they may separate when reheated.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely—just follow package instructions carefully.

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Final Thoughts (300+ Words)

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is one of those recipes that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few everyday ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that feels indulgent, cozy, and deeply satisfying. The velvety garlic cream sauce clings perfectly to the penne, delivering rich flavor in every forkful.

What truly sets this dish apart is its versatility. It can stand on its own as a comforting vegetarian dinner, or it can serve as a base for endless variations—chicken, shrimp, vegetables, or even a hint of spice. This flexibility makes Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta a recipe you’ll come back to again and again, no matter the season or occasion.