Garlic Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe

I have to tell you, this Garlic Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The combination of creamy garlic sauce, tender pasta, and melty cheeses just hits every cozy note. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something simple but seriously satisfying—and bonus, it makes excellent leftovers!

What makes this Garlic Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe really stand out is how it balances the richness of butter and half and half with the sharpness of parmesan and the gentle kick of garlic. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole comes together pretty easily and always impresses. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This Garlic Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe brings together a handful of familiar ingredients that pack a punch when combined. Each one plays its part perfectly to create a cheesy, garlicky, and cozy meal you’ll want often. Here’s why they work so well:

• Penne Pasta: Holds sauce well thanks to its ridges and tube shape, plus it’s sturdy enough for baking without getting mushy.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create the roux for a creamy cheese sauce base.
• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce so it clings beautifully to every pasta piece.
• Half and Half: Provides creaminess that’s lighter than heavy cream, making the dish indulgent without being overwhelming.
• Garlic (minced and powder): Fresh minced garlic offers vibrant aromatic flavor while garlic powder deepens the savory profile.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds an herbaceous blend that elevates the sauce with familiar Mediterranean notes.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, salty, and nutty — melts into the sauce to create that unmistakable cheesy goodness.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts stretchy and gooey on top, giving the casserole a perfect bubbling crust.
• Cooked Chicken: Adds protein and heartiness—plus, it’s super convenient if you have leftovers or rotisserie chicken on hand.
• Kosher Salt & Fresh Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds brightness and a splash of color when serving.

Make It Your Way

I love mixing things up with my Garlic Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe, and I encourage you to do the same! Whether it’s swapping out the chicken for different proteins, adding veggies, or adjusting herbs to your taste, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and flexible.

• Variation: I sometimes use spinach and mushrooms instead of chicken for a vegetarian twist, and it still comes out rich and delicious.
• Spice it Up: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce adds a nice warmth that wakes up the flavors without overpowering them.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free option, I’ve tried plant-based milks and cheeses — it takes some tweaking but is definitely doable for those with restrictions.
• Gluten-Free: Using gluten-free flour and pasta works well if you swap the roux and pasta accordingly.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

First things first: bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then drop in your penne. Follow the package instructions but aim to cook the pasta just shy of al dente since it’ll continue cooking in the oven. Once done, drain it well and set aside—but don’t rinse. Keeping the pasta a bit starchy helps the sauce stick better later on.

Step 2: Whip Up the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes until it smells nutty—this little step makes all the difference for a smooth sauce without that raw flour taste. Next, pour in the half and half gradually while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until it bubbles and thickens.

Then, lower the heat and add your minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, tasting and adjusting seasoning if needed. It stands out here—don’t rush this step to get those flavors perfectly balanced.

Step 3: Combine and Layer for Baking

Now, toss the cooked pasta and chopped chicken into the sauce, making sure everything is evenly coated. Pour half of this mixture into your 9×13-inch baking dish, then sprinkle half the mozzarella evenly over the top. Layer the rest of the pasta mixture on next, and finish with the remaining mozzarella. This layering locks in moisture and creates that irresistible cheese crust that browns beautifully.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden and you see those lovely bubbling cheese spots. Let the casserole rest for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving—this helps everything set so it slices nicely and isn’t lava-hot on your first bite. Sprinkle fresh parsley just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish my Garlic Parmesan Pasta Casserole with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. It adds a subtle herbaceous note and pops against the creamy, golden top. Sometimes I also add a dusting of extra parmesan just before serving for an extra cheesy zing.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. Roasted broccoli or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette are my go-to sides. They add freshness and a slight crunch that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to bake individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins. It makes serving easier and looks so charming on the dinner table. You can even sprinkle crispy bacon or toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking for a fun textural twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I transfer leftovers to airtight containers and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The casserole actually tastes better the next day as flavors continue to meld. Just make sure to cover it well to keep the cheese moist and prevent drying out.

Freezing

This Garlic Parmesan Pasta Casserole freezes surprisingly well. I freeze it before baking — just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready, bake it covered for about 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake until bubbly and golden.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, I prefer using the oven at 350°F, covering the casserole to keep it moist (about 15-20 minutes). If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works but the texture won’t be quite as nice. A quick sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating helps revive that melty goodness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s such a reliable, soul-warming dish that never fails to impress. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want comfort food without fuss, and it always brings smiles to the table. I’m excited for you to give it a try and customize it to your liking—once you do, I’m pretty sure it’ll become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!

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