Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
A flavorful and creamy dish that's easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and highly customizable to suit your palate.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cooking Essentials
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 teaspoon oil (to prevent sticking)
- 3 tablespoons butter
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped can substitute with basil
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and toss it with a teaspoon of oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the garlic butter and stir constantly, cooking for another minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk to the roux.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes, half of the Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens and becomes creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
Combining and Serving
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Sprinkle in the remaining Parmesan cheese and mix well.
- Serve the pasta hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Serve with a side of garlic bread or fresh salad for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.