If you’re craving a rich, creamy dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious, then this Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe is the perfect choice. The dish combines the smoothness of cream and the aromatic flavor of garlic for a pasta meal that’s indulgent, satisfying, and utterly irresistible. It’s ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal when you want to impress. This dish is easy to make and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a busy day.
- Rich & Flavorful: The garlic sauce brings a comforting depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with any pasta.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite proteins, spices, or even make it vegetarian.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual meal or a dinner party, this dish fits every scenario.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauce is a hit with kids, and it’s simple enough for them to help make.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced finely
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- A squeeze of lemon juice (optional, for a zesty touch)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, ensuring it reaches al dente perfection. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. For an extra flavorful twist, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later if needed. - Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes golden and fragrant. Be cautious not to let it burn, as garlic can turn bitter if overcooked. - Prepare the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine the garlic and cream, allowing the sauce to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes. This step will help thicken the sauce and infuse the cream with rich garlic flavor. - Add Cheese and Broth:
Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese and chicken broth. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted, and the sauce has become smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) for a kick of heat. - Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat with the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak in the sauce and become beautifully coated. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. - Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the pasta to your serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. If desired, a light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice will add brightness to the dish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Use Fresh Garlic: Always use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor. The aroma and taste of fresh garlic will elevate the dish.
- Adjust Consistency: If you find the sauce too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or reserved pasta water until the desired texture is reached.
- Add Protein for a Heartier Meal: Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms for a more substantial dish.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use vegetarian Parmesan cheese for a meat-free version of this dish.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice. If you prefer a more intense heat, you can also add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving and Storage Tips for Creamy Garlic Pasta
Serving Tips:
- Garnish Well: Add a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese to give the dish a visually appealing and flavorful finish.
- Pair with Sides: Complement your creamy garlic pasta with a light green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A slice of garlic bread is also a perfect accompaniment to mop up any extra sauce.
- Presentation Matters: For a professional touch, twirl the pasta onto plates using a fork and spoon, creating a nest-like shape. Drizzle with extra sauce and sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper for added elegance.
- Keep It Warm: If serving at a gathering, you can keep the pasta warm in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting, ensuring that the dish stays at the perfect temperature for serving.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: If you have any leftover pasta, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep for 3-4 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
- Freezing: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze creamy garlic pasta for up to 2 months. Simply place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and reheat when ready to enjoy. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat gently on the stove.
- Reheating: Reheat your leftover pasta on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from drying out. If using a microwave, be sure to stir every 30 seconds for even heating.
By following these easy tips for serving, storing, and reheating, you’ll be able to enjoy your creamy garlic pasta at its very best, whether it’s fresh or as a convenient leftover meal!
Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian option
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and chicken broth. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer! Fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta all work well with this creamy garlic sauce. Just remember to adjust the cooking time depending on the pasta you choose.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy garlic pasta in advance by cooking the pasta and preparing the sauce separately. Store both in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat them together, adding a bit of chicken broth or cream to adjust the sauce consistency.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, making this recipe vegetarian is easy! Just swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and use vegetarian Parmesan cheese to keep the creamy garlic flavor intact.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, you can easily spice up this dish! Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a splash of hot sauce to the garlic sauce for an added kick. Adjust the amount to suit your personal spice preference.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Pasta is the epitome of comfort food – rich, savory, and perfectly creamy. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for yourself or cooking for a crowd, this dish will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s so beloved by pasta lovers everywhere!