Creamy Garlic Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining a luscious, garlicky cream sauce with tender pasta. This dish is simple to make yet delivers restaurant-quality flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that will delight your family or guests. Ready in under 30 minutes, this pasta is a go-to for any occasion.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for those busy evenings when time is short.
- Rich and Creamy: A velvety garlic sauce that feels indulgent.
- Customizable: Add protein or veggies to suit your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: A dish everyone will love, from kids to adults.
- Minimal Ingredients: Made with kitchen staples you likely already have.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Equipment Used
- Large pot
- Medium skillet
- Whisk
- Pasta tongs
Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Directions & Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and whisk to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue to whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Variations
- Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian Additions: Toss in steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute milk, but the sauce will be thinner. Add 1 tbsp of flour to help thicken it.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: This pasta is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.
Q: Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
A: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a richer flavor, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Avoid overcooking it to prevent bitterness.
- Cheese Melting: Ensure the Parmesan is finely grated for a smooth sauce.
- Pasta Water: Don’t skip reserving pasta water; it’s key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
- Serving Fresh: Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Creamy Garlic Pasta with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a cozy dinner, serve with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Medium skillet
- Whisk
- Pasta tongs
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and whisk to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue to whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.