Creamy Penne Pasta is a rich and comforting dish that features perfectly cooked penne enveloped in a velvety, cheese-infused cream sauce. Simple yet indulgent, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or when you crave a satisfying, hearty meal that comes together quickly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You will love Creamy Penne Pasta for its silky texture, luscious flavor, and ease of preparation. This dish delivers restaurant-quality comfort with minimal ingredients and effort. It is versatile—you can enjoy it as is, or add vegetables, chicken, or shrimp for a complete, well-rounded meal. Its smooth sauce clings beautifully to the ridged pasta, ensuring flavorful bites from start to finish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Penne pasta
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Ground nutmeg (optional, for depth)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese (if using). Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if desired.
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
- Vegetable addition: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas.
- Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for gentle heat.
- Cheese swap: Try Gruyère, Asiago, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce. Freezing is not recommended, as cream sauces may separate upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be lighter and less rich. You may need to thicken it slightly with a bit of flour or cornstarch.
What pasta shapes can I use besides penne?
Rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli are great alternatives that hold sauce well.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer longer to reduce, or add a cornstarch slurry.
Can I make this dish ahead?
It is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately and combine just before serving.
How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
Simmer gently and avoid boiling the cream.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I add lemon zest for brightness?
Yes, a bit of lemon zest adds a refreshing note that balances the richness.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Toss the cooked pasta with a little olive oil if not using immediately.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, it is naturally vegetarian. Just ensure any cheese used is suitable for vegetarians.
What sides pair well with creamy penne pasta?
A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish nicely.
Conclusion
Creamy Penne Pasta is a comforting, indulgent dish that delivers velvety, cheesy goodness in every bite. Its simplicity, versatility, and rich flavor make it a go-to recipe for when you need a satisfying, quick-to-prepare meal. Whether served as is or enhanced with proteins and vegetables, this pasta dish is sure to please.
PrintCreamy Penne Pasta
Creamy Penne Pasta is a rich and comforting dish that features perfectly cooked penne enveloped in a velvety, cheese-infused cream sauce. Simple yet indulgent, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or when you crave a satisfying, hearty meal that comes together quickly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Penne pasta
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Ground nutmeg (optional, for depth)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese (if using). Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if desired.
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Add protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
- Vegetable addition: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas.
- Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for gentle heat.
- Cheese swap: Try Gruyère, Asiago, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 80mg