Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Pasta is a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that comes together quickly with simple pantry ingredients. Loaded with savory garlic, a velvety cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the ultimate go-to for weeknight dinners or cozy meals. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables and can easily be made vegetarian or gluten-free.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pastabuttergarliccloveheavy creamparmesan cheesesaltblack pepperparsley (for garnish)

directions

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.

Let everything cook together for 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for extra protein.

Stir in spinach or mushrooms for a veggie boost.

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

storage/reheating

Store Creamy Garlic Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For better results, use half-and-half.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti are ideal, but any pasta will work.

Can I make it ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately and combine before serving.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, as long as the Parmesan used is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Pasta?

It’s not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

What cheese can I use instead of Parmesan?

Grana Padano, Pecorino Romano, or even cream cheese can be used in a pinch.

How can I make it more garlicky?

Add more garlic or roast garlic beforehand for a deeper flavor.

Can I add broth to the sauce?

A splash of chicken or vegetable broth can thin the sauce slightly and add flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for garlic lovers and busy weeknights alike. Its smooth, cheesy sauce and bold garlic flavor make it a classic comfort food that’s easy to customize and sure to please. Once you try it, this recipe might just become a staple in your kitchen.