Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound of pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1/2 cup of Carrigaline Garlic & Herb Cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup of butter
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making the sauce
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Add the salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
4. Add the grated Carrigaline Garlic & Herb Cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated. Add the chopped parsley and toss again.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Saucepan over medium heat
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Protein: 18g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Carrigaline Garlic & Herb Cheese can be substituted with any other garlic and herb cheese.
- Butter can be substituted with margarine or olive oil.
- Milk can be substituted with almond milk or soy milk.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp to the pasta for a protein boost.
- Add roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different types of pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, for a different texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Reserve some pasta water before draining the pasta. This can be added to the sauce if it is too thick.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pasta in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley or grated cheese.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley
- Grated cheese
Pairings:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic roasted potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add some pasta water to thin it out.
- If the sauce is too thin, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the pasta and sauce to the appropriate temperature to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Carrigaline Cheese is a family-owned cheese company based in County Cork, Ireland. Their Garlic & Herb Cheese is a popular flavor that is used in many dishes, including this pasta recipe.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, garlicky, herby, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pasta as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or party.
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Region: Irish