Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta
Highlighted under: Fast & Flavorful Studio
This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that's perfect for any night of the week.
This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is not just a meal; it's an experience. With its rich garlic flavor and creamy texture, it's a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy sauce that beautifully coats the pasta
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Garlic lovers will adore the rich flavor
A Delightful Dinner in Minutes
When you're strapped for time but still want to whip up something delicious, this Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is your go-to recipe. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in under 30 minutes. This dish is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to feed the family without a fuss.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using just a few pantry staples, you can create a rich and creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Whether you choose fettuccine or spaghetti, you'll find that the flavors marry beautifully, creating a comforting dish that everyone will love.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta isn't just a weekday meal; it's versatile enough for any occasion. Serve it on a cozy night in, impress your guests at a dinner party, or even pair it with a crisp salad for a light but satisfying lunch. The creamy garlic sauce elevates this dish, making it suitable for both casual and special gatherings.
If you're looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is your ideal choice. The rich flavors will leave your guests wondering about your culinary secrets, while you'll enjoy the simplicity of the preparation. Plus, it’s easy to scale up for larger groups, making it a great option for entertaining.
Customize to Your Taste
One of the best things about this Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is its adaptability. While the recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for an extra nutritional boost. Alternatively, for a protein-packed meal, grilled chicken or shrimp can be tossed in for added heartiness.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese. While Parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to mix in some creamy goat cheese or a tangy feta for a unique twist. This recipe encourages creativity, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
Creamy Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Gather all the ingredients before starting to make the cooking process easier.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Combine
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Mix with Pasta
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Enjoy your meal while it's hot for the best flavor!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables to the pasta before serving.
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them is straightforward. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When stored properly in the fridge, it should stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened.
It's important to note that the texture may change slightly when reheating, but it will still be delicious. For best results, avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the rich flavors of the Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta, consider pairing it with a light, crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines balance the creaminess of the dish and enhance the garlic notes beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon can also be refreshing.
For a complete meal, serve this pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad. The crunch of the salad and the warmth of the bread will make for a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work well.
→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian; just ensure your Parmesan cheese is rennet-free.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream.
Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta
This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that's perfect for any night of the week.
Created by: Rowena Clarke
Recipe Type: Fast & Flavorful Studio
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
Creamy Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How-To Steps
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables to the pasta before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g