Description
A delicious and comforting pasta bake combining rich garlic and cheese flavors, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) milk
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups (150g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
- 1 cup (100g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup (15g) breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the penne pasta following the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the garlic and stir to make a paste. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, bringing to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the heat and add 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth.
- Season sauce with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs if used.
- Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet and mix until well coated in sauce.
- Transfer pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella, remaining Parmesan, and breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with parsley and serving.
Notes
For an extra kick, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or veggies like spinach before baking. For a crispy top, broil for the last minute or two.
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