Penne Alfredo Pasta Recipe – Creamy Italian Pasta
Penne Alfredo Pasta is a classic Italian dish loved for its rich and creamy sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner. With the smooth texture of the sauce coating every pasta piece, it’s a favorite among both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 250 grams penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3–4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
- Add penne pasta and cook until al dente (firm to bite).
- Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later use.
2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat and pour in fresh cream. Stir well to combine.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs if using.
3. Combine Pasta with Sauce
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce.
- Toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot as a main course or side dish.
Tips for Perfect Penne Alfredo Pasta
- Use Fresh Cream: For a rich and smooth sauce, always use fresh cream.
- Do Not Overcook Pasta: Al dente pasta absorbs the sauce better and maintains a perfect texture.
- Cheese Choice: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Optional Add-Ons: You can add vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or chicken for a more filling meal.
Final Thoughts
Penne Alfredo Pasta is a deliciously creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its smooth and cheesy sauce makes it a favorite for pasta lovers. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this classic Italian recipe at home and enjoy a restaurant-style meal.