Roasted Garlic Alfredo Penne with Broccoli

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 heads garlic
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut off the top of each garlic head, place on a sheet of foil, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap. Roast for 40 minutes.
2. 2 While garlic roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
3. 3 In the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking, add broccoli to the boiling water until just tender.
4. 4 In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Squeeze roasted garlic cloves into the pan and mash with a fork.
5. 5 Add heavy cream to the saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
6. 6 Combine pasta, broccoli, and alfredo sauce in a large bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
7. 7 Serve immediately with extra Parmesan for garnish.

Equipment

• Oven
• Saucepan
• Large pot
• Baking sheet

Variations

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
• Substitute penne with your favorite pasta shape.

Substitutions

• Use almond milk in place of heavy cream for a lighter option.
• Substitute Parmesan with pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.

Pairings

• Serve with a glass of Chardonnay.
• Offer warm crusty bread on the side.

Nutrition

Tips

• Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• For a richer sauce, substitute part of the heavy cream with cream cheese.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stovetop with additional cream if needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp Caesar salad.
• Sprinkle with chopped parsley or toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.

FAQ