Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is that perfect balance of indulgence and comfort—a dish where al dente pasta meets a luxuriously rich garlic cream sauce and melts into every forkful. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or want a cozy weeknight treat, this pasta delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. The creamy sauce is loaded with freshly minced garlic, a blend of cheeses, and just the right touch of seasoning to make each bite irresistibly satisfying.

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it on its own or use it as a base for added proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables. It’s the kind of pasta that feels like a hug in a bowl and pairs well with a crisp salad or warm breadsticks for the ultimate experience.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this dreamy pasta dish, it helps to have a few key tools ready to make the process seamless:

Large Saucepan or Pot — Needed for boiling the penne pasta. A deep pot ensures the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.
Colander — Helps drain the pasta without losing any precious pieces.
Deep Skillet or Sauté Pan — This is where the magic happens: the garlic gets fragrant and the creamy sauce thickens to perfection.

Whisk — Crucial for blending the cream, cheese, and seasonings without clumps.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula — Ideal for stirring the sauce gently without scratching your pan.
Garlic Press or Microplane — To get that fine, aromatic garlic texture that melts beautifully into the sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Penne Pasta — The classic tube-shaped pasta holds creamy sauces beautifully and cooks to a satisfying bite.
Butter — Adds richness and is the base for sautéing the garlic.
Minced Garlic — The heart of this dish, providing bold and aromatic flavor.

Heavy Cream — Creates that velvety, indulgent sauce texture.
Parmesan Cheese — Brings nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese — For that irresistible gooey stretch and mild creaminess.

Salt & Black Pepper — Essential seasoning to balance and enhance the flavors.
Fresh Parsley (Optional) — A pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

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

Step 2: Build the Garlic Butter Base

In a deep skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to brown it.

Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and whisk gently to combine with the garlic butter. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes so the flavors meld and the cream thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Lower the heat and stir in the parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust as needed.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss until each piece is coated in that luscious sauce. Let it heat through for 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley if using, and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy masterpiece!

Serving and Storing Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is best enjoyed fresh off the stove when the cheese is melty and the sauce is silky. Serve it in shallow pasta bowls for that cozy, restaurant-style presentation. Pair it with crusty bread, a light green salad, or grilled vegetables for a full meal. A sprinkle of extra parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate each bite even more.

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Avoid high heat, as it can separate the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

This pasta is already vegetarian if made as listed, just be sure to use vegetarian-labeled cheeses (some parmesan uses animal rennet).

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes! Half-and-half can work for a lighter version, though the sauce won’t be as rich. Plant-based cream alternatives also work well if you’re dairy-free.

What protein goes best with this dish?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu are all fantastic options that soak up the sauce beautifully.

How do I avoid clumpy cheese in the sauce?

Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties, and lower the heat when adding cheese to prevent clumping.

Can I freeze creamy pasta?

It’s not recommended. Cream sauces tend to separate after freezing, affecting texture. Fresh is always best with this one!

How can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter step, or drizzle with chili oil before serving for a little kick.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re loving this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, here are some other satisfying pasta recipes from Life With Olivia that you’ll enjoy next:

Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake for a spicy and bold dinner option.
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole packed with layers of cheesy goodness.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce if you love garlic-forward flavors.

One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta for a savory skillet-style dinner.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce when you crave more chicken + garlic deliciousness.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a protein or keep it classic? Did you sneak in extra garlic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better every day.

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Author: Olivia McKenney

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta brings together tender pasta and a velvety garlic cheese sauce in a dish that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for a cozy night in or as a rich side for proteins and veggies.

Ingredients

2 cups penne pasta

2 tablespoons butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.

3. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk well. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Lower the heat and stir in parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.

5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust if needed.

6. Add cooked penne to the skillet and toss well to coat each piece in the creamy sauce.

7. Heat for another 1-2 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheese to ensure a smoother sauce texture.

To reheat leftovers, add a splash of cream or milk and warm gently to preserve creaminess.

If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs perfectly with this dish.