Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat, add minced garlic and sauté gently for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic. Stir as the cream warms, then gradually add Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped herbs or additional Parmesan cheese as desired.