What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? A rich and creamy garlic penne pasta dish, of course, made with a homemade white sauce and topped with parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor, try making this easy family favorite recipe at home, save this idea

creamy garlic penne pasta in a white sauce with parmesan cheese on top

Introduction

This creamy garlic penne pasta in a white sauce with parmesan cheese on top is a dish that combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the richness of Italian cuisine. It’s a recipe that highlights the ease of cooking a delicious meal without needing exotic ingredients or complex techniques. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of flavors, from the pungency of garlic to the creaminess of the white sauce, all topped with the salty, nutty flavor of parmesan cheese. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe succeeds in balancing strong flavors like garlic with the richness of white sauce and parmesan, using ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: The steps involved in preparing this dish are straightforward and require minimal cooking techniques, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the ingredients and the preparation process, the end result is a dish that looks and tastes like it was prepared in a professional kitchen, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this creamy garlic penne pasta include penne pasta, garlic, a white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, and parmesan cheese. Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in the dish’s flavor and texture. Penne pasta, with its tube shape, holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly. Garlic adds a depth of flavor that complements the richness of the white sauce. The white sauce, made from a roux of butter and flour cooked in milk, provides creaminess without the need for heavy cream. Finally, parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. For those looking for substitutions, gluten-free pasta can be used for those with dietary restrictions, and different types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar can be used in place of parmesan, though they will change the flavor profile slightly.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. This includes mincing the garlic, measuring out the flour, butter, and milk for the white sauce, and grating the parmesan cheese. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil to cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the penne.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Then, add the flour and whisk it into the butter to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens into a creamy sauce.
3. Step 3: Once the white sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked penne pasta to the cheese sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems too! thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
4. Step 4: For the final touches, transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates. Top with additional parmesan cheese if desired. You can also add some freshness with parsley or basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of your garlic penne pasta.

Handy Tips

• To avoid lumps in your white sauce, make sure to whisk constantly as you add the milk to the roux. Also, cooking the garlic just until fragrant is crucial to prevent it from becoming overpowering or bitter.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially when making the white sauce. The roux should be cooked over medium heat to prevent it from burning, and the milk should be added slowly while whisking to maintain a smooth texture. When cooking the pasta, ensure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the penne, and cook until it’s al dente to prevent overcooking.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish can be added by topping the pasta with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts before serving. This adds a satisfying textural element to the dish. However, the main texture comes from the al dente pasta and the creamy sauce, providing a nice balance between firmness and softness.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• One pro trick is to always have a block of parmesan cheese in the fridge. Not only does it add flavor to dishes like this creamy garlic penne, but it can also be used to add depth to soups, salads, and other sauces.
• Another trick is to make the white sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day or freeze it for later use. This can save time during meal prep and make the cooking process more efficient.

Storage Tips

• This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a bit of milk or pasta water to revive the sauce to its original creaminess. It’s also possible to freeze the cooked pasta with the sauce for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.
• For best results, store the dish in airtight containers to prevent drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is primarily served hot and fresh, components of it can be gifted. For example, a block of high-quality parmesan cheese or a jar of homemade garlic butter can be nicely wrapped and given as a gift to fellow food lovers. Consider decorative jars, twine, and a handwritten note for a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give this dish a unique twist. Nutmeg enhances the creamy aspect, while red pepper adds a spicy kick.
• Creative toppings: Besides parmesan, other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese can be used. Additionally, toppings such as cooked bacon, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed spinach can add flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: For a vegan version, swap the butter and milk with vegan alternatives and use nutritional yeast to mimic the cheesy flavor. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the sauce ingredients are gluten-free.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of milk or pasta water. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to reduce it.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have parmesan, other hard cheeses can be used as substitutes, though they may change the flavor profile slightly.
• Over/undercooking signs: Pasta that’s overcooked will be mushy, while undercooked pasta will be too hard. The white sauce should be smooth and creamy; if it’s lumpy, whisk it more vigorously or strain it through a sieve.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta with the sauce for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat when needed, adding a bit of milk or pasta water if the sauce has thickened.
• Is it gluten-free? The pasta can be swapped with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients, including the sauce, are gluten-free as well.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, all ingredients can be doubled to serve a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a larger pot for the sauce and adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic penne pasta in a white sauce with parmesan cheese on top is a versatile and delicious dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make it your own. The key to this dish, like many in Italian cuisine, is in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. So, go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special in your kitchen.