Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Pasta is a favorite among many for good reasons. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion—from an easy weeknight dinner to a cozy gathering with friends. The creamy sauce is smooth and filling, while the garlic adds a lovely aromatic touch. It’s an excellent way to bring a little taste of Italy to your kitchen without spending hours cooking.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta

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)

Directions:

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.
Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream and whisk to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Mix in cheese: Add 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.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Pasta

This creamy dish is best served right after it’s made. You can place it on individual plates or serve it family-style in a large bowl. Add some extra grated Parmesan on top and a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Garlic Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be kept for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to bring back the creamy texture.

Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta

Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
If you want a more intense garlic flavor, consider adding more cloves.
For a tighter budget, use a less expensive cheese or omit it for a lighter version.

Variation

You can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. For protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be great additions that complement the creamy sauce well.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like! Penne or linguine will work well too.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream to lighten the sauce, though the texture will be different.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a non-dairy option if you’re looking for a cheese alternative.