Go Back
A close-up shot showcases a delicious Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake with a golden-brown, bubbly topping, ready to be served.

Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake

This Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing gathering. With simple ingredients and customizable options, it's a guaranteed hit that will leave everyone wanting more.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pasta penne, rotini, or your favorite shape
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese, plus more for topping
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, diced optional
  • 1 cup cooked broccoli florets optional
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained optional
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish optional

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce begins to thicken.
  6. Stir in the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
  8. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like chicken or broccoli, gently fold them in now.
  9. Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with additional Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
  11. Let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

If the sauce becomes too thick while cooking, add a little extra milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the pasta before baking. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time. Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream if the pasta seems dry.