Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the perfect combination of simplicity, indulgence, and comfort. With tender penne pasta coated in a velvety, garlic-forward cream sauce, this dish is a go-to for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or when you simply crave something rich, satisfying, and fast.
The beauty of this pasta lies in its straightforward ingredients and foolproof technique. The sauce comes together quickly—garlic gently sautéed in butter, folded into luscious cream and Parmesan, then tossed with perfectly cooked penne. Each bite is a beautiful balance of al dente pasta, warm creaminess, and the unmistakable aroma of fresh garlic.
Whether served as a main course or as a side to grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables, Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a versatile dish that belongs in every cook’s repertoire.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
This pasta is a perfect blend of rich flavors and minimal effort. It’s fast, simple, and endlessly customizable.
Here’s why you’ll want to keep this recipe on rotation:
- Quick to prepare—ready in under 30 minutes.
- Perfect for garlic lovers.
- Balanced richness with bright Parmesan and fresh herbs.
- Can stand alone or pair beautifully with proteins or roasted vegetables.
- Easy to make ahead or batch cook for the week.
It’s the ultimate comfort dish: creamy, garlicky, and endlessly satisfying.

Choosing the Best Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Since this dish relies on a few simple ingredients, quality makes a big difference.
Pasta
- Penne pasta is perfect for holding the creamy sauce in its ridges and hollow centers.
- You can substitute rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli for a twist.
Garlic
- Use fresh garlic cloves, minced or thinly sliced for the best flavor.
- Roasted garlic can add a sweeter, mellow profile if you prefer a less sharp garlic bite.
Cream
- Heavy cream provides the classic rich texture.
- Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
Cheese
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts smoothly and delivers a nutty, savory depth.
- Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which may clump and not melt properly.
Butter and Olive Oil
- A mix of butter and olive oil helps sauté the garlic without burning and gives the sauce a rich, balanced base.
Fresh Herbs
- Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme can brighten the dish.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a subtle kick.

Recommended Equipment for This Recipe
- Large sauté pan or skillet: For cooking the garlic and building the sauce.
- Pasta pot: For cooking penne to al dente.
- Tongs or silicone spatula: For tossing the pasta gently in the sauce.
- Ladle: For adding reserved pasta water as needed.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
1. Garlic burning:
Sauté garlic over medium or medium-low heat and watch carefully. Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter.
2. Sauce separating:
Remove the pan from direct heat when adding cheese and stir gently to emulsify.
3. Sauce too thick:
Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency. The starchy water helps thin the sauce while maintaining creaminess.
4. Sauce too bland:
Be generous with seasoning. Salt, pepper, Parmesan, and fresh herbs are key to building flavor.
Flavor Enhancements and Creative Variations
- Add sautéed mushrooms: For an earthy depth.
- Toss in spinach or arugula: For a pop of freshness.
- Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp: To make it a heartier meal.
- Add lemon zest or juice: To cut through the richness.
- Use roasted garlic instead of raw: For a sweeter, mellow garlic profile.
- Spice it up: With crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Smart Preparation Strategies
- Prep all ingredients before cooking: The sauce comes together quickly, so have everything ready to go.
- Double the sauce: To make leftovers extra creamy.
- Use high-quality Parmesan: It melts better and adds more flavor.
Substitution Guide for Dietary Needs
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free penne pasta.
- Dairy-free: Use coconut cream or plant-based cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.
- Low-carb: Serve the sauce over zucchini noodles or sautéed cauliflower.
- Vegan: Substitute butter with olive oil, cream with coconut cream, and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or plant-based Parmesan.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
- Reserved pasta water as needed
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, minced or thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Optional: Zest of ½ lemon for brightness
Garnishes
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until just al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large sauté pan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Toss the Pasta
Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss gently to coat.
Stir in lemon zest if using for added brightness.
Step 6: Serve
Plate the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and cracked black pepper.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
- Pair with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables to turn it into a full meal.
Troubleshooting
- Garlic burned: Lower the heat and keep garlic moving while sautéing.
- Sauce too thick: Add reserved pasta water or a splash of cream.
- Sauce too bland: Season with more salt, pepper, Parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended—cream-based sauces can separate when thawed.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen if needed.
Variations: Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta vs. Classic Alfredo vs. Garlic Butter Pasta
- Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta: Cream-heavy, garlic-forward sauce with Parmesan, simple yet rich.
- Classic Alfredo: Focuses more on butter, cream, and Parmesan, typically with fettuccine.
- Garlic Butter Pasta: Lighter, oil-based sauce without cream, sometimes with breadcrumbs or parsley.
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the kind of dish you turn to when you want something creamy, comforting, and packed with garlicky goodness—perfect as a main course or a luxurious side that’s sure to satisfy.