I recently tried making this Quick Delicious Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake Recipe, and let me tell you—it was love at first bite. I was craving something cheesy, comforting, and quick, and this recipe delivered all three perfectly.
From the creamy garlic sauce to the golden, bubbling Parmesan topping, every bite felt like a hug. I love how easy it is to whip up on a weeknight, yet it feels special enough for guests. If you’re a pasta lover like me, you might also enjoy the Hobo Foil Packets Recipe for a quick, hands-off dinner.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy, cheesy pasta bake. I’ll also share tips on why each ingredient matters.
- 300g penne pasta – I always use dried pasta; it holds up better when baked.
- 3 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps create a creamy sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the best flavor; avoid pre-minced jars.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce perfectly without lumps.
- 2 cups milk – Whole milk works best for creaminess; you can substitute plant milk for a lighter version.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated melts better and has a stronger flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella – Provides that gooey, stretchy topping everyone loves.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Enhances the overall flavor of the pasta.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – I usually add a pinch at a time to avoid over-salting.
- Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken or vegetables – Adds protein or extra nutrition.
Note: several serving
Variations
You can tweak this recipe depending on your dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese.
- Add a little smoked paprika or chili flakes for a spicier twist.
- Swap penne for whole-wheat pasta for added fiber and a healthier option.
- Stir in cooked spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies. You can also enjoy similar flavor combinations with Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls Recipe.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large pot – To boil the pasta.
- Skillet – For making the garlic parmesan sauce.
- Wooden spoon – To stir the sauce without scratching your pan.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect size for baking the pasta evenly.
- Cheese grater – Freshly grated cheese melts best for this recipe.
How to Make Quick Delicious Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake Recipe
Prepare the Pasta
Start by boiling your penne pasta in salted water until just al dente. I like cooking it slightly under, so it finishes perfectly in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Then whisk in flour to create a roux, slowly add milk and cream, and stir until smooth. Finish with Parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the sauce and mix until fully coated. If you’re adding cooked chicken or vegetables, fold them in now for an even distribution.
Bake to Perfection
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle extra mozzarella on top. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, for an extra pop of color.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Here are some of my personal tips after making this dish a few times:
- I like using freshly grated cheese—it really makes a difference in flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it continues to cook in the oven.
- I sometimes sprinkle a little extra garlic on top before baking for a stronger aroma.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day once flavors meld together.
How to Serve Quick Delicious Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake Recipe
This pasta bake is comforting on its own but shines with simple accompaniments. Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a full meal. I like presenting it in the baking dish, topped with fresh parsley or extra parmesan for that restaurant-quality look.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 450-500 kcal – A hearty and filling portion.
- Protein: 18g – Thanks to the cheese and optional chicken.
- Carbohydrates: 45g – From the pasta, providing energy for your day.
- Fat: 22g – Rich, creamy, and indulgent without being overwhelming.
Make Ahead and Storage
Refrigerating
I often make this a day in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to meal prep. Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months, then bake directly from frozen for 35-40 minutes.
Reheating
I reheat leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to maintain that golden, bubbly top. Microwaving works too but the top won’t stay as crisp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this pasta bake is a keeper:
- Quick and easy – I can make it in under an hour, perfect for weeknights.
- Comfort food at its finest – Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
- Highly versatile – Add veggies, chicken, or make it vegan.
- Flavorful – Garlic and parmesan bring bold, rich flavors every time.
- Great for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day after flavors meld.
Quick Delicious Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by boiling your penne pasta in salted water until just al dente. I like cooking it slightly under, so it finishes perfectly in the oven. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Then whisk in flour to create a roux, slowly add milk and cream, and stir until smooth. Finish with Parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and mix until fully coated. If you’re adding cooked chicken or vegetables, fold them in now for an even distribution.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle extra mozzarella on top. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, for an extra pop of color.
Notes
- I like using freshly grated cheese—it really makes a difference in flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it continues to cook in the oven.
- I sometimes sprinkle a little extra garlic on top before baking for a stronger aroma.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day once flavors meld together.
