Description
This creamy White Sauce Penne Pasta recipe features perfectly cooked penne tossed in a rich, homemade white sauce made from butter, garlic, flour, milk, chicken broth, and parmesan cheese. Enhanced with parsley and seasoned to perfection, this comforting dish is quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option for the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 (16-ounce) package penne pasta (about 4 cups)
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
Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or additional parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare the roux: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for another minute to create a roux, ensuring the raw flour taste cooks out.
- Make the white sauce: Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring and cook the mixture until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Once thickened, add the grated parmesan cheese, dried parsley, garlic salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and mix well to coat all the pasta evenly. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese or additional parmesan cheese if using, allowing it to melt completely into the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the pasta warm immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, but the recipe is not fully vegetarian due to cheese.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to make a more substantial meal.
- Use whole wheat penne pasta for added fiber and a healthier option.
- For a richer sauce, use half-and-half or cream instead of milk, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste; add more garlic salt or pepper if preferred.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a little more milk or broth while stirring.
