Description
A comforting and creamy pasta dish infused with the rich flavors of garlic, perfect for family gatherings and intimate dinners alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz Penne Pasta
- 4 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil or Butter
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a minute or two, thickening slightly.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked penne in the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finishing Touches: If using, sauté mushrooms separately and stir in before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy warm and creamy!
Notes
For a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. You can also add nutritional yeast for a vegan option instead of Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: creamy pasta, garlic pasta, comfort food, Italian recipe, family dinner