Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta is a dish that brings the comforting warmth of Italian flavors right to your kitchen. With its creamy texture, aromatic herbs, and the savory punch of garlic, this pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. It’s simple to prepare, yet elegant enough to impress, making it a beloved recipe in many households. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table.
Why It Deserves a Spot
This Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The combination of garlic and herbs creates a fragrant sauce that clings beautifully to the penne. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for you! Whether you’re a busy parent or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe caters to all. It’s indulgent, yet you can easily tweak it to suit your dietary needs.
Ingredient Rundown
To create this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups penne pasta (uncooked) – The star of the dish, penne’s tubular shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.
- 1 medium onion (chopped) – Sweetness and depth of flavor that enhances the dish.
- 1 small tomato (diced) – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) – The aromatic base that gives this dish its name.
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and elevating flavors.
- 1 cup milk – Creates a creamy texture without being too heavy.
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning – A mix of oregano, parsley, and basil for that classic Italian flair.
- 2 tablespoons flour – Helps thicken the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a gooey, cheesy finish.
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before you start cooking, gather the following items:
- Large pot – For boiling the pasta.
- Sauté pan – To prepare the sauce.
- Wooden spoon – For stirring and combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Colander – For draining the pasta after cooking.
Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta Made Stepwise
Creating this dish is straightforward, and it can be done in just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Cook the Penne
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the 2 cups of penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Stir in the diced tomato, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomato softens slightly, releasing its juices.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the sautéed mixture, stirring to combine. Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, add the drained penne pasta and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to the pan. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce and the cheese is melted and gooey.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
Make It Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to adapt this Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta to fit specific dietary needs, consider these options:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular penne with gluten-free penne made from rice or lentils.
- Low-Carb: Use spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash instead of pasta for a lighter alternative.
- Vegan: Replace milk with almond or coconut milk and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
- Extra Veggies: Add in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
Errors to Dodge
To ensure your Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta turns out perfectly, watch out for these common mistakes:
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture that won’t hold up well in the sauce.
- Not seasoning the sauce adequately can result in a bland dish. Taste and adjust as needed!
- Adding the cheese too early can cause it to clump instead of melt smoothly into the sauce.
- Forgetting to reserve some pasta water may leave your sauce too thick. If needed, add a splash to loosen it up.
Storing Tips & Timelines
If you have leftovers (which is rare but possible), here’s how to store them:
You can store Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to help revive the creaminess. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming in a pan over low heat.
Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta Q&A
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can experiment with other pasta shapes such as fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti.
What can I add for extra protein?
For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. You could also toss in some chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will infuse the dish with a delightful kick!
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine them when you’re ready to serve, and heat them together on the stovetop.
One Pan, More Ideas
If you’re enjoying this one-pan style recipe, why not try these delicious alternatives?
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks – A perfect side dish bursting with flavor.
- Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs With Rice Pilaf – Another savory option that’s easy to make.
See You at the Table
This Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta is bound to become a favorite in your household. Its simplicity, flavor, and adaptability make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen. There’s nothing quite like the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Happy cooking!
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Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook the Penne - Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the 2 cups of penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics - In a sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning - Stir in the diced tomato, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomato softens slightly, releasing its juices.
- Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce - Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the sautéed mixture, stirring to combine. Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
- Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese - Once the sauce has thickened, add the drained penne pasta and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to the pan. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce and the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy - Serve the Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute regular penne with gluten-free penne made from rice or lentils.
- Add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
