Creamy Macaroni Penne Recipe – Easy & Delicious Comfort Food
This Macaroni Penne Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring perfectly cooked penne pasta smothered in a rich, creamy, and cheesy sauce. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. With a blend of Parmesan and cheddar cheese, garlic, and a touch of seasoning, every bite is packed with flavor. Serve it as a main dish or a side with grilled chicken or veggies!
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz 340g penne pasta
- 4 cups water for boiling
- 1 tsp salt
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk whole or 2%
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika optional, for extra flavor
- ½ tsp dried oregano optional
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup cooked chicken grilled or shredded
- ½ cup cooked mushrooms
- ½ cup steamed broccoli
- ¼ cup cooked bacon bits
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually around 10-12 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Once al dente, drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside.
- Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken.
- Step 3: Add Cheese & Seasoning
- Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Step 4: Combine Pasta & Serve
- Add the cooked penne pasta into the sauce, stirring well to coat every piece.
- If using add-ins like chicken, mushrooms, or broccoli, stir them in now.
- Cook for 2 more minutes until everything is heated through.
- Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy your creamy macaroni penne!
Notes
For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
For extra cheesiness, add a handful of mozzarella or Gruyère cheese.
For a crispy top, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs & Parmesan, and broil for 3-5 minutes.
For extra cheesiness, add a handful of mozzarella or Gruyère cheese.
For a crispy top, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs & Parmesan, and broil for 3-5 minutes.