Creamy Garlic Pasta
This Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe is a quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious meal ready in minutes. Perfectly cooked pasta is coated in a velvety, garlicky sauce, promising pure comfort in each bite.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or pot (same as pasta pot can be reused)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Garlic mincer
- Grater
- Fork
- Tongs or pasta server
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguine
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Before draining, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In the same pot or a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water to thin it out. To store leftovers, place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream. Variations: Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a vegetarian option.