This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to make. Packed with rich flavors, this recipe combines the creaminess of Parmesan cheese with the aromatic punch of garlic, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. With approximately 450 calories per serving, this pasta dish is a great source of energy and can be customized to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a small group, this recipe is sure to impress.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 4 people
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.
Tips and Tricks
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the sauce.
- Don’t skip the pasta water—it’s starchy and helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to make this dish even heartier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly versatile. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out our pasta recipe collection.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is a good source of calcium from the Parmesan cheese and provides energy-boosting carbohydrates from the pasta. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, making this meal not just delicious but also nutritious.
Feel free to add or remove ingredients according to your taste.
