Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why you'll fall in love with this creamy garlic Parmesan pasta. First and foremost, it's incredibly easy to make and requires only a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The creamy, garlicky sauce is a perfect complement to the tender pasta, and the richness from the Parmesan cheese brings everything together. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you need a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, it's a versatile recipe that can be customized with vegetables, proteins, or seasonings to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.

4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add chicken or shrimp: You can add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for extra protein and flavor.

• Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian twist, add roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms to the pasta.

• Spicy version: For some heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free without compromising on flavor.

• Make it lighter: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, although the sauce may not be as rich.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover creamy garlic Parmesan pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore its creamy texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a little milk to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Fettuccine, penne, and spaghetti are great choices, but feel free to get creative with shapes!

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a plant-based Parmesan cheese.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To make the sauce thicker, you can simmer it a bit longer or add more Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, adding a little cornstarch mixed with water can also help thicken it.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely! Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms are great additions to this creamy pasta.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

Can I freeze this creamy garlic Parmesan pasta?

This pasta does not freeze well due to the creamy sauce, which may separate when reheated. It's best to enjoy it fresh or store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.

How can I make this pasta spicier?

To add some heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese works best for this recipe, as it melts smoothly and creates a creamier sauce. However, pre-grated cheese can be used in a pinch.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?

After draining the pasta, toss it immediately in a little bit of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. Be sure to mix it with the sauce right away to coat it well.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to make the dish a bit lighter. Keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich and creamy, but still delicious.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the perfect dish for anyone craving a comforting, easy-to-make meal that's full of flavor. With its creamy sauce and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you're feeding a crowd or making a quick dinner for yourself, this pasta is guaranteed to hit the spot.