Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds.
- Whisk in flour and cook for an additional minute.
- Gradually add milk and cream while whisking continuously. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in shredded white cheddar until smooth, seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional paprika.
- Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce; toss until fully coated and heated through.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating vegetables such as spinach or broccoli into the mixture. Make sure to whisk constantly when preparing the sauce to prevent lumps from forming. Adjust the thickness of the sauce by simmering longer if needed or adding a splash of milk if too thick.