Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 10 ounces penne pasta, uncooked; 2 Tablespoons butter; 1 ½ teaspoons flour; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ⅓ cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon pepper; ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 75 reviews

If you’ve been craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you're in for a real treat with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe. It’s the ultimate comfort food that comes together incredibly fast without skimping on flavor. Picture perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a luscious, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, subtly kissed by Italian herbs, making every bite irresistibly creamy and satisfying. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe is a total winner that delivers big on taste and coziness.

The image shows various cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the middle, there is a clear glass bowl filled with uncooked yellow penne pasta. Surrounding it in a circle are smaller white dishes and clear glass bowls containing white flour, black pepper, green dried herbs, salt, grated cheese, and a whole garlic bulb nearby. A small white dish holds a slice of butter, while a clear glass measuring cup contains a light yellow liquid, and another clear glass measuring cup holds milk. The setup is clean and simple with each ingredient clearly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You'll Need

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack so much flavor into every bite. Each element plays its part — from the tender pasta providing heartiness, to the butter and cream giving that signature silky texture, and the garlic and Parmesan bringing a rich, savory depth that makes this dish truly special.

10 ounces penne pasta: Choose good-quality dried pasta to ensure a perfect al dente bite that holds the sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth base for the sauce.
1 ½ teaspoons flour: Used to thicken the sauce so it clings wonderfully to every noodle.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with a fragrant and zesty kick.
⅓ cup chicken broth: Adds a subtle savory note that balances the creaminess.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: The core of that luscious, velvety texture we all crave.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings aromatic herbs like oregano and basil to brighten the sauce.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in a harmonious way.
¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds a touch of warmth without overpowering the dish.
½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: The star ingredient that melts into the sauce, giving it that signature salty, nutty depth.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 10 ounces of penne and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. This ensures that the pasta is tender but firm enough to hold up perfectly against the rich sauce you’re about to create.

Step 2: Make the Base Sauce

While the pasta cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle in 1 ½ teaspoons of flour and whisk it continuously for about a minute. This step helps create a roux that will thicken your sauce, giving it that luxurious mouthfeel you’re dreaming of.

Step 3: Infuse Garlic and Add Broth

Next, add the 3 cloves of minced garlic to the roux and whisk for another minute. Pour in ⅓ cup of chicken broth, stirring constantly to keep the sauce smooth. This addition amps up the savory complexity while keeping the creaminess balanced and not too heavy.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream

Pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, whisking continuously as the sauce thickens. Keep stirring until it coats the back of a spoon but avoids becoming gummy. This silky texture will beautifully envelop your pasta, making every forkful a delight.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Now for the magic touch — stir in ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Combine everything thoroughly, then remove the skillet from the heat to avoid the cheese breaking down too much, ensuring a smooth, cheesy sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Drain the cooked penne noodles thoroughly and add them directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything well so each penne is generously coated. This final mix guarantees you'll have creamy, flavorful bites from start to finish.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe

A white pot filled with creamy pasta is shown. The pasta is penne, covered in a smooth, off-white sauce with black pepper dots spread evenly over the surface. The sauce looks thick and rich, coating each piece of pasta. The pot is sitting on a white marbled surface, with a small bowl of grated cheese and a piece of bread visible near the pot's handle. The overall look is simple and appetizing, with a soft and creamy texture that contrasts with the pasta’s shape. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your pasta with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a handful of fresh chopped parsley. These toppings not only enhance the dish visually but add a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy richness, making it feel even more special.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These sides balance the creaminess of the pasta while adding freshness and a variety of textures to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins and broil with a little extra Parmesan on top for a golden crust. It’s a crowd-pleasing touch that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to execute.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, making for an easy next-day meal that's just as comforting.

Freezing

While freezing cream-based pasta dishes can sometimes affect texture, you can freeze this recipe by storing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it slowly in the fridge before reheating to help maintain creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving on high to keep the sauce smooth and prevent separation.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine to switch things up without losing that delicious coating.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and you’ll have a wonderfully savory vegetarian version that’s just as flavorful and creamy.

Can I add protein to make this a complete meal?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits are fantastic additions that blend well with the creamy garlic Parmesan flavor, giving you a heartier dish.

How do I get the sauce to the perfect consistency?

Patience is key! Whisk continuously when adding the cream and cook until the sauce coats the back of a spoon but isn’t too thick or gummy. If it gets too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

It would be a different flavor experience, but you can try using dairy-free butter, cream alternatives like coconut cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Just keep in mind the classic richness will change.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe that makes it a staple in any kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor that everyone will love. I hope you enjoy making and devouring this cozy dish as much as I do — it’s perfect for any night you need a little extra deliciousness on your plate!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need