Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake

This creamy garlic Parmesan pasta bake is a comforting dinner you will crave on cool evenings. It delivers that craveable combination of golden bubbly cheese and tender pasta, all wrapped in a velvety garlic-infused sauce. Even on my busiest nights, this is the recipe I reach for when I want something hearty and indulgent but still family-friendly.

Ever since I surprised my family with this dish on a gray weeknight, it has earned a permanent spot in my comfort food rotation. That layer of golden mozzarella on top always wins cheers around the table.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Penne pasta: Brings the perfect bite and soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully
• Butter: Quality impacts the depth here so splurge on European-style if possible
• Fresh garlic: Is key for the savory base, opt for plump firm cloves
• All-purpose flour: Makes a smooth roux that thickens your sauce without lumps
• Whole or two percent milk: Both work for a classic creamy finish
• Heavy cream: Adds decadent richness, use fresh cream for best results
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts smoothly and tastes more robust
• Mozzarella cheese: Gives that signature pull and browning, use low-moisture for the topping
• Italian seasoning: Provides herby warmth, check for freshness in your spice jar
• Salt and black pepper: Balance the flavors, grind your pepper fresh for maximum aroma
• Fresh parsley: Brightens with a pop of color and flavor, try flat-leaf for best results

How to Make It

Cook the Pasta:

Fill a large pot with water and add a generous handful of salt, bring to a rolling boil, add the penne and cook until al dente, follow the package directions but taste a minute before to ensure the ideal texture, drain thoroughly and set aside uncovered so it does not overcook

Build the Garlic Roux:

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, once foaming add the minced garlic, stir constantly for about one minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, then sprinkle in the flour, whisk well for another minute until the mixture is pale and bubbly which removes any raw flour taste

Make the Creamy Base:

Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, as soon as you have a smooth mixture let the sauce gently simmer, keep stirring and scrape the bottom of the skillet so nothing sticks

Add Cheeses and Seasonings:

Lower the heat and slowly sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and most of the shredded mozzarella, reserve some mozzarella for the top, add Italian seasoning, salt and plenty of cracked black pepper, whisk until the blend is thick, velvety, and all the cheese is melted into the sauce, about three to four minutes

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Tip the drained penne into the skillet with the creamy sauce, use a large spoon to toss gently ensuring every piece is coated and the flavors meld together

Assemble for Baking:

Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish and pour in the saucy pasta, spreading it evenly, then scatter the reserved mozzarella over the top for extra golden bubbly pockets

Bake to Perfection:

Position the dish in the center of a preheated oven at three hundred seventy five degrees, bake uncovered for twenty to twenty five minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling, resist the urge to overbake for a soft creamy center

Garnish and Serve:

Let the bake cool for just a couple minutes, then shower with chopped fresh parsley for freshness, serve warm right from the dish for maximum comfort

I have a special fondness for parmesan cheese, its nutty sharpness makes this dish unforgettable and takes me back to childhood holiday bakes. Smelling the cheese melting brought the whole family together, and now my kids rush to the table as soon as the oven timer beeps.

Flavor Boosters

After cooling completely transfer extra portions to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to four days and reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven. Avoid freezing already baked pasta with dairy sauce as the texture can split, though unbaked assembled portions freeze better. If you are looking to plan ahead this pasta bake works beautifully as a make ahead meal, I often build two pans at once and freeze one before baking for a future night when I need something ready to pop in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake stands alone as a satisfying main but I love to pair it with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. Roasted veggies like asparagus or brussels sprouts make it feel like a Sunday dinner ordinary weeknight. To make it even more special drizzle a tiny bit of truffle oil or sprinkle red pepper flakes over individual servings. For parties or potlucks you can double the recipe and bake in two pans so everyone gets a scoop of that golden top.

Creative Twists

It is easy to tailor this bake to suit your pantry or cravings. Swap penne for any short sturdy pasta, shells, rigatoni or ziti work wonderfully. For extra protein add shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked shrimp or crisp bacon. Veggie lovers can tumble in baby spinach, steamed broccoli or even peas for a burst of color and nutrition. If you are out of cream all milk will suffice with a little extra cheese for richness, and any melty cheese mix makes a fine substitute for mozzarella in a pinch.

With this creamy garlic Parmesan pasta bake you get all the richness and cozy vibes of family favorite cooking plus flexibility to adapt to your tastes. It is a dish that rewards you with flavor in every bite and memories around the table every time.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute penne with rigatoni, ziti, or any other short pasta you have on hand.

→ How can I add more protein?

Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon before baking to boost the protein content.

→ Are there vegetable add-ins that work well?

Stir in spinach, broccoli, or peas for added nutrients and flavor before baking the dish.

→ Is the bake suitable for making ahead?

You can assemble it in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Add a few minutes to the baking time if cold.

→ How do I achieve a crispy topping?

Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top before baking for extra crunch.