White Sauce Penne Pasta

Creamy White Sauce Penne Pasta: A Comforting Classic

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of creamy pasta. This White Sauce Penne Pasta is a delightful dish that’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, this recipe combines tender penne pasta with a luscious white sauce made from butter, garlic, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this pasta is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 (16-ounce) package (about 4 cups) penne pasta

For the White Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• Garlic salt with parsley flakes, or salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Optional:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese or additional Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the White Sauce

1. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour into the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, for another minute to create a roux. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking the mixture until it begins to boil and thickens, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, garlic salt (or salt), and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked penne pasta to the saucepan with the white sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
2. If desired, add the shredded mozzarella cheese or additional Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra parsley or Parmesan if desired. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Recipe Notes

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Calories: 400 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

Final Thoughts

This White Sauce Penne Pasta is a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy white sauce, made from a combination of butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, coats each piece of penne beautifully, creating a dish that’s both rich and satisfying. Whether you choose to keep it classic or add in some mozzarella for extra creaminess, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it as a main course or a comforting side dish, and enjoy the warmth and flavor it brings to your table.

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