Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta

There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta. It reminds me of cozy nights spent with family, gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. My love for pasta runs deep, and this recipe is one of my all-time favorites. The combination of aromatic herbs and rich flavors makes it a dish I often turn to when I want to impress guests or enjoy a simple yet elegant meal at home. Plus, with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, every bite is a delight. Whenever I make this, I can’t help but be transported back to my childhood kitchen, where the smell of garlic always filled the air, signifying love and care in every dish prepared. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy.

What’s In This Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta

Every ingredient in the Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious flavor profile. The combination of fresh herbs, creamy milk, and rich mozzarella cheese forms the base of a delectable sauce that perfectly coats the penne pasta. The addition of garlic infuses the dish with a savory depth that elevates it from simple to extraordinary.

• 2 cups penne pasta (uncooked): The heart of this dish, perfectly shaped to hold the creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps to sauté the onion and tomato.
• ½ medium onion (chopped): Brings a sweet, savory flavor to the sauce.
• 1 small tomato (diced): Adds freshness and acidity, balancing the creaminess.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• Salt and ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
• 1 ½ cups milk: Creates a creamy base for the sauce.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A mix of oregano, parsley, and basil adds a burst of flavor.
• 2 tablespoons flour: Helps to thicken the sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a rich, cheesy texture.

Recipe Steps for Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta

Making Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta is not only fun but also a rewarding experience. Let’s get started with these easy steps that will lead you to a delicious homemade pasta dish. Gather your ingredients, and let’s cook together!

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. As the pasta cooks, you’ll be able to prepare the sauce, which saves time.
2. Once the pasta is done, drain it in a colander and set aside. Make sure you reserve some of the pasta water, as it can be useful later if the sauce is too thick.
3. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced tomato, cooking for about 5 minutes. Stir frequently until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial for building the base flavor of your sauce.
4. Next, add the minced garlic, season with salt and pepper, and lower the heat to medium-low. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the garlic to soften and become aromatic without burning.
5. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring it in. Let it cook for one minute, which will help thicken your sauce. This step is essential to avoid a watery sauce and to make sure everything is well combined.
6. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Add in the Italian seasoning as well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. You’ll start to see the sauce thicken up.
7. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes. Keep an eye on the consistency; if the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. If it’s too thin, you can add a bit more flour and whisk until smooth.
8. Add the drained penne pasta and mozzarella cheese to the pot, stirring until everything is well coated and the cheese has melted. This is where the magic happens, as the sauce envelops the pasta completely.
9. Once everything is mixed together, remove the pot from heat. Let it sit for a few moments, as this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
10. Finally, serve your Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta hot, garnished with extra herbs if desired. Enjoy it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a delightful meal.

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful hints to ensure your Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta turns out delicious every time. Follow these tips for a perfect pasta dish that’s sure to impress.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pasta for up to two months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: This pasta goes wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a light vinaigrette dressing.
• Serving: For a fancy touch, serve with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
• Variations: You can customize your Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta by adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or seasonal vegetables to make it unique.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the dish. Consider using fresh basil or parsley for garnish.

What Complements This Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta

• Side Dishes: This delicious pasta pairs perfectly with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables, which add a nice contrast to the creamy dish.
• Occasions: Ideal for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even a romantic date night at home.
• Seasonal Pairings: Serve this pasta in the spring or summer for a light meal, or cozy up with it during the winter months for comfort.
• Storage Tips: Remember to refrigerate any leftovers promptly, ensuring they stay fresh for the next day.
• Cooking Method: You can adapt this recipe for a one-pot meal by cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, which saves on dishes and intensifies the flavors.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. With its creamy texture and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your home. I encourage you to try this recipe; you might just find yourself making it a weekly tradition! Gather your loved ones and enjoy this warm, hearty meal together. Bon appétit!

Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta combines creamy deliciousness with fresh herbs for an easy weeknight dinner. Bursting with flavor, this dish will become a family favorite. Make it tonight and enjoy!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups penne pasta uncooked
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ medium onion chopped
• 1 small tomato diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• salt to taste
• ground black pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning I like to use a fresh mix of oregano, parsley, basil
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Prepare pasta as per instructions on the box in a large pot of salty water. Drain pasta.
2. While pasta is boiling, heat olive oil, and add in onion, and tomato and cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until onion is translucent.
3. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper and lower heat to medium low, mixing together for 3 minutes.
4. Add the flour, stir into the ingredients, and cook for one minute. Stir in the milk, whisking will stirring in so it doesn’t clump, and the Italian seasonings and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat and stir occasionally for about 3-4 more minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken. If it’s too thick, add more milk. If it isn’t thick enough, add a little bit more flour.
6. Add the hot, drained pasta and the mozzarella cheese and stir until it’s all mixed together.
7. Remove from the heat so that it doesn’t become too thick, and serve. Enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the cooked pasta for up to two months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Tip 3: This pasta goes wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a light vinaigrette dressing.
• Tip 4: For a fancy touch, serve with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
• Tip 5: You can customize your Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta by adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or seasonal vegetables to make it unique.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.