Description
A comforting and creamy penne pasta dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a little pasta water for later.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Add the heavy cream to the skillet with the garlic, stirring gently to combine. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a bit of the reserved pasta water.
- Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked penne into the creamy sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.
Notes
For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Creamy Pasta, Quick Dinner, Comfort Food, Vegetarian Recipe