Description
This creamy White Sauce Penne Pasta features perfectly cooked penne tossed in a rich garlic-infused white sauce made with butter, milk, chicken broth, and parmesan cheese. Finished with mozzarella for extra cheesiness, this easy stovetop dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal and can be customized with your favorite proteins.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Penne Pasta
- 1 (16-ounce) package penne, 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
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or additional Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Prepare White Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for another 1 minute to form a roux and remove the raw flour taste.
- Make the Sauce: Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Add grated parmesan cheese, dried parsley, garlic salt (or regular salt), and pepper to taste, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the white sauce and gently toss to coat evenly. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese or extra parmesan until melted and incorporated.
- Serve: Serve the creamy white sauce penne pasta warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Notes
- When adding flour to the butter, cook it long enough to eliminate the raw flour flavor and create a smooth roux.
- Pour the milk slowly while whisking constantly to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- For extra protein and enhanced flavor, add grilled chicken, chicken sausage, diced ham, or shrimp.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
