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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the satisfying warmth and hearty appeal of a pasta bake. The Zesty Lemon Butter Green Bean Pasta Bake is an exceptional choice that beautifully marries the freshness of green beans with the bright zing of lemon, all enveloped in a rich, buttery sauce. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as a comforting weeknight meal that everyone will love.

Lemon Butter Green Bean Pasta Bake

Discover the deliciousness of Zesty Lemon Butter Green Bean Pasta Bake, a comforting dish that combines fresh green beans and creamy lemon sauce enveloping tender penne pasta. This recipe not only elevates traditional pasta bakes but also offers a vibrant visual appeal. With rich flavors from garlic, thyme, and Parmesan cheese, every bite is a delightful experience. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty meal. Explore the preparation steps and key ingredients for a satisfying culinary adventure.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) penne pasta

2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture, typically around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.

    Prepare the Green Beans: Without discarding the pot of boiling water, add the trimmed and cut green beans. Blanch them for approximately 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp. Once done, immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl filled with ice water to halt the cooking process. After they cool, drain them again and set aside.

      Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Stir in the lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, allowing the flavors to meld together.

        Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, and then pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to blend the ingredients until smooth. Gradually mix in half of the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until it melts and the sauce is creamy.

          Assemble the Bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, blanched green beans, and the lemon butter sauce. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are well coated. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

            Top the Bake: In a small bowl, mix the remaining grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the pasta bake, ensuring a crunchy topping is distributed across the entire surface.

              Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and crispy.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.

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

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve in individual bowls for a refined touch, and drizzle with a little extra lemon juice for added brightness if desired. Enjoy!