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To achieve the perfect creamy lemon butter sauce for your Lemon Butter Green Bean Pasta Bake, it is essential to pay attention to the preparation techniques. Start by melting a generous amount of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. The key to a smooth sauce lies in the gradual addition of flour to create a roux. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for about 1-2 minutes until you achieve a light, golden color. This step ensures that the flour is cooked properly, eliminating any raw taste.

Lemon Butter Green Bean Pasta Bake

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Lemon Butter Green Bean Pasta Bake, a delightful dish that’s perfect for any gathering. This easy recipe combines hearty penne pasta with vibrant green beans, all enveloped in a creamy lemon butter sauce. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser suitable for family dinners or potlucks. Enjoy the rich, savory taste coupled with a refreshing citrus twist, and create lasting memories around the table.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

4 tbsp unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for heat)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature once you prepare the pasta bake.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the green beans. Drain both the pasta and beans well, and set them aside.

      Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, stir in the fresh lemon zest and juice to infuse the sauce with bright flavor.

        Create the Creamy Mixture: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until it comes to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

          Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked penne pasta and green beans with the lemon butter sauce. Ensure that all the pasta and beans are evenly coated in the silky sauce for maximum flavor.

            Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta and green bean mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese for a gooey finish.

              Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown, creating a delightful crust on top.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Before serving, generously sprinkle chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese on top for added freshness and flavor.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 6 servings

                    Enjoy this delicious Lemon Butter Green Bean Pasta Bake, a comforting and flavorful dish that showcases vibrant ingredients!