Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake is a rich, comforting dish made with tender pasta tossed in a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s simple to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings — pure cheesy, garlicky perfection in every bite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tbsp melted butter for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until the sauce begins to thicken (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella on top, and if desired, add buttered breadcrumbs for crunch.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a heartier version.
- For extra creaminess, stir in 2 oz of cream cheese before baking.
- Reheats beautifully — just add a splash of milk when warming to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Italian-American