Craving a delicious meal that feels like it’s straight from a restaurant? I’ve got you covered with this easy recipe. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish serves 2-4 people, making it ideal for families or small gatherings.
This recipe combines rich flavors like garlic and parmesan cheese with a smooth, velvety sauce. It’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have at home, like butter and cream. Whether you’re serving it as a meatless main or a side dish, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Kids love it, and adults appreciate the restaurant-quality taste. Plus, I’ll share a pro tip: reserve some pasta water to perfect the sauce consistency. If you’re looking for more family-friendly recipes, check out this marry me chicken pasta recipe for another crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Restaurant-Style Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Need a family-friendly recipe that’s ready in no time? This dish is perfect for busy weeknights. It takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy solution for dinner. Plus, the one-pot sauce preparation means minimal cleanup—a win for anyone with a hectic schedule.
This recipe is highly customizable. Add chicken breast or shrimp for extra protein, or keep it simple as a meatless option. Real user feedback says it all: “My mother went back for seconds!” It’s a crowd-pleaser that rivals restaurant quality without the premium price tag.
Ingredient flexibility is another bonus. Swap white wine for broth if needed, and feel free to adjust the flavors to your liking. Leftovers are freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy this dish later in the week. It’s perfect for dinner parties or casual family meals.
If you’re looking for another quick and easy weeknight meal, try this broccoli cheddar chicken pasta bake. It’s another family-friendly option that’s sure to impress.
Gather Your Ingredients for the Perfect Pasta
The key to this dish lies in the quality of the ingredients you use. Fresh, high-quality components make all the difference in achieving that rich, authentic flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need to get started.
Pantry Staples You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s a quick checklist:
| Quantity | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8 oz | Penne | Uncooked |
| 2 tbsp | Butter | Unsalted preferred |
| 3 cloves | Garlic | Freshly minced |
| 1/4 cup | Dry white wine | Substitute chicken broth |
| 1 cup | Heavy cream | No low-fat substitutes |
| 1/3 cup | Parmesan cheese | Freshly grated |
Fresh Ingredients to Elevate the Dish
Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe. Powdered garlic won’t deliver the same depth of flavor. When it comes to butter, opt for real butter over margarine for a richer taste.
For the wine, choose a dry white variety like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth works as a great substitute. Heavy cream is essential for the sauce’s texture—low-fat options won’t give you the same velvety consistency.
Finally, freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the finishing touch. Use a Microplane grater for the best results. If you’re looking for another dish that highlights fresh ingredients, try this zesty lemon pepper chicken delight.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Ready to master this recipe? Here’s how to get started. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Let’s break it down into three simple parts: prepping the pasta and sauce base, creating the sauce, and combining everything to perfection.
Prepping the Pasta and Sauce Base
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 quarts of water. This ensures the pasta is well-seasoned. Cook the pasta for 6-7 minutes until it’s slightly firm. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining—it’ll help adjust the sauce later.
While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step thickens the sauce and gives it a smooth texture.
Creating the Sauce
Next, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds to release its aroma. Be careful not to burn it. Pour in dry white wine and let it reduce by half. This adds depth to the sauce.
Gradually whisk in heavy cream to prevent lumps. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens. To check the consistency, dip a spoon into the sauce—it should coat the back of the spoon evenly.
Combining Everything to Perfection
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it with the sauce. Use tongs for even mixing. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
For a finishing touch, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the dish. Serve immediately and enjoy! If you’re looking for another quick meal, try this easy spaghetti pie recipe for a delicious twist.
Tips for Customizing Your Pasta
Looking to make this dish your own? Here’s how. Whether you want to add protein, swap ingredients, or adjust flavors, these tips will help you create a meal that suits your taste.
For a protein boost, try adding sautéed chicken breast. Cook it separately with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then toss it in at the end. It’s a simple way to make the dish heartier.
Vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower can add freshness and texture. Steam or sauté them before mixing them into the pasta. If you’re short on time, frozen florets work just as well.
If you’re out of heavy cream, 2% milk can be a lighter alternative. Just note that the sauce may be slightly thinner. For a richer flavor, consider blending in a bit of butter.
Herbs like oregano or basil can change the flavor profile. Sprinkle them on top for a fresh finish. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to taste.
Cheese lovers can experiment with asiago or pecorino instead of Parmesan. Both add a unique twist to the dish. For a zesty touch, garnish with lemon zest before serving.
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, swap regular pasta for a gluten-free version. Many options, like chickpea or quinoa pasta, work beautifully in this recipe.
Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for a month. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
For more inspiration, check out this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta recipe. It’s another great way to customize your meals.
| Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 2% milk |
| Parmesan cheese | Asiago or Pecorino |
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Want to turn this dish into a full meal? Here’s how. Start with a side of crusty garlic bread. Toast it in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. It’s the perfect complement to soak up the sauce.
For a fresh touch, pair it with a simple salad. Arugula with a lemon dressing works beautifully. Add a handful of olives for a Mediterranean twist. These side dishes balance the richness of the main course.
If you’re serving wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc is a great choice. Its acidity cuts through the creaminess of the dish. For protein, grilled shrimp skewers are a quick and tasty addition.
Roasted asparagus is another excellent option. Toss it with olive oil and a pinch of salt before roasting. It adds a healthy and colorful touch to your plate.
When it comes to garnishes, parsley or basil adds a pop of color. Sprinkle it on top for a fresh finish. For kid-friendly plating, a little extra cheese always works wonders.
Portion control is easy. Adjust servings for 2 or 4 people by doubling or halving the recipe. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. For more ideas, check out this shrimp penne with garlic sauce recipe.
Nutritional Information to Keep in Mind
Understanding the nutritional profile of your meal is essential for balanced eating. This dish packs 521 calories per serving, making it a satisfying yet mindful choice. Let’s dive into the details to help you make informed decisions.
Each serving contains 31g of fat, with 19g being saturated fat. While this contributes to the dish’s rich flavor, it’s worth noting for those monitoring their intake. The cholesterol content is 104mg per serving, so moderation is key if you’re watching your levels.
On the brighter side, this recipe provides 15% of your daily calcium needs, supporting bone health. It also offers 2g of fiber per serving, aiding digestion. For vitamins, you’ll get a boost of A and C, which are great for your immune system.
If you’re managing sodium, consider using low-salt adaptations. Compared to restaurant versions, this recipe reduces calories by 30%, making it a healthier alternative. For more nutritional insights, check out this creamy garlic and onion spaghetti recipe.
Allergy alert: This dish contains dairy and gluten. For substitutions, use plant-based cream and gluten-free pasta to enjoy it without compromising your dietary needs.
Time to Enjoy Your Homemade Restaurant-Style Pasta
It’s time to savor your creation and make the most of this flavorful experience. Serve it immediately for the best texture and taste. Trust me, it’s worth it!
I’d love to hear how your dish turned out. Share your feedback or tag me on social media with #HomemadeDelights. Your input helps me improve and create even better recipes for you.
Here’s a quick tip: if you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help troubleshoot and ensure your cooking journey is smooth. Stay tuned for more recipe variations coming soon!
Before you go, double-check your kitchen tools to make sure you’re ready for your next culinary adventure. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!