Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Description:
This Creamy Garlic Pasta is a rich, luscious dish that combines al dente pasta with a velvety, flavorful garlic cream sauce. Perfectly balanced with fresh garlic, butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, it’s comfort food at its finest. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant side dish.
Ingredients:
8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti work well)
3 tbsp unsalted
6 cloves garlic, minced (adjust for taste)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (to loosen sauce)
Equipment:
Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet or saucepan
Grater for chees
Strainer for pasta
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
2. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (don’t brown or burn it).
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well.
Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Season with salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if using.
Toss until pasta is fully coated and creamy.
4. Serve
Plate the creamy garlic pasta.
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Serve hot.
Prep and Cook Time:
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 2):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~550 kcal
Protein 20 g
Carbohydrates 55 g
Fat 25 g
Saturated Fat 15 g
Fiber 3 g
Sodium 400 mg
Sugar 3 g
Cholesterol 90 mg
Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on pasta type and cream used.
Common Questions & Answers:
Q1: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A1: You can use milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich or creamy. To help thicken it, add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with a little water.
Q2: How do I make this vegan?
A2: Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use plant-based cream (like coconut or cashew cream), and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Q3: Can I add protein like chicken or shrimp?
A3: Yes! Cook your protein separately, then toss it with the pasta in the sauce.
Q4: How long does leftover creamy garlic pasta last?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream.
Q5: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A5: It’s best fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and refrigerate it for a day. Reheat slowly and add pasta water or cream to loosen it before mixing with pasta.