Creamy, comforting, and downright addictive, this Easy Creamy Penne Pasta is the dinner you didn’t know you needed—until now. With its velvety sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and flavor-packed ingredients, this dish delivers everything you crave in a matter of minutes.
Simple enough for busy weeknights, yet rich enough to feel like an indulgence, it’s no wonder people are saying: “I could eat this every single night!”
Why This Creamy Penne Pasta is So Addictive
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Rich, velvety, restaurant-quality sauce
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Uses simple pantry staples
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Ready in 20 minutes or less
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Customizable with veggies or protein
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Perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike
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A true crowd-pleaser—even picky eaters love it
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s effortless, comforting, and incredibly satisfying, this creamy pasta checks all the boxes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this pasta so crave-worthy:
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12 oz penne pasta
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2 tablespoons butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 ½ cups heavy cream
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
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Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Optional Add-Ins to Elevate the Flavor
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Grilled chicken or bacon for protein
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Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for texture
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A pinch of crushed red pepper for heat
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A splash of white wine for depth
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Swap penne for rigatoni, fusilli, or fettuccine
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Add Cheese & Seasonings
Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, whisking until completely melted and the sauce is thick and silky. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
4. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect creamy consistency.
5. Garnish & Serve
Top with chopped fresh herbs, extra Parmesan, and a twist of black pepper. Serve hot, and get ready for the rave reviews.
Why It Works: The Secret’s in the Simplicity
This recipe is proof that less is more. By letting high-quality ingredients shine—like real cream, aged cheese, and garlic—you create maximum flavor without overcomplicating it.
And because it all comes together in one pan (plus the pasta pot), cleanup is almost as easy as making it.
Variations to Keep Things Interesting
Love this recipe? Here are a few variations to keep it in rotation:
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Creamy Cajun Penne: Add cooked shrimp or chicken and 1 tsp Cajun seasoning for a spicy Southern twist.
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Alfredo-Style: Double the Parmesan, skip the mozzarella, and add ¼ cup cream cheese for ultra richness.
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Lemon Garlic Penne: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice and zest for brightness.
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Vegetarian Delight: Toss in steamed broccoli, zucchini, or peas for a wholesome spin.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Penne Pasta
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Use freshly grated cheese—it melts better and gives smoother results.
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Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente keeps it from getting mushy in the sauce.
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Stir the sauce frequently while simmering to avoid curdling or burning.
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Taste and adjust—sometimes a pinch of salt or cheese can balance the whole dish.
What to Serve with Creamy Penne Pasta
Pair your creamy penne with:
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Garlic bread or focaccia
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A light Caesar or arugula salad
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Grilled chicken or shrimp
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A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon
It’s also perfect as a standalone meal when you want something quick, cozy, and filling.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you.
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to restore the silky texture.
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Freeze for up to 1 month, though fresh is best for ultimate creaminess.
Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Pasta Dinner
This Easy Creamy Penne Pasta is the kind of dish you make once—and then can’t stop thinking about. It’s warm, rich, full of flavor, and makes you feel like a pro in the kitchen with almost no effort.
Try it tonight. Then try not to make it again tomorrow. We dare you.
