Hlaoo, I'm excited to share my fav dish – Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta. With a rich, velvety garlic and Parmesan sauce, this pasta is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying so let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 (1 lb) box penne or penne rigate, cooked as directed, drained, and kept hot
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup chicken broth or beef broth
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the penne or penne rigate according to the package instructions.
- Drain and keep hot.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter or margarine over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken or beef broth and milk. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce reaches a boil and thickens.
Season the Sauce:
- Stir in the dried parsley flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- If desired, incorporate the red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Toss the hot, cooked pasta with the creamy garlic sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Support us by shopping anything through our Amazon referral link!
Secret Tips:
- For a richer flavor, substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for the milk.
- Enhance the dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables.
- A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors beautifully
Chef's Remarks:
This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Bon appétit!
Nutrition Table for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 58g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 13g |
| Vitamin D | 1mcg |
| Calcium | 150mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
| Potassium | 250mg |
*Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes