Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 340 g penne pasta
02 - 28 g unsalted butter
03 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 16 g all-purpose flour
05 - 480 ml whole milk
06 - 240 ml heavy cream
07 - 100 g grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 0.5 teaspoon salt, or to taste
09 - 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
11 - Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
02 - In a large skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
03 - Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the garlic and whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes, forming a smooth paste.
04 - Gradually pour in whole milk and heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, until sauce thickens slightly.
05 - Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
06 - Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
07 - Remove from heat and finish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, grate Parmesan cheese fresh for smoother melting and optimal flavor.
02 - Reserve some of the pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.