Description
Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of creamy garlic pasta, a quick and easy comfort meal featuring garlic-infused butter, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing dinner.
Ingredients
-
Pasta: 12 oz (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
-
Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted
-
Garlic: 6 cloves, minced
-
Heavy Cream: 2 cups
-
Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
-
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
-
Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
-
Italian Seasoning: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
-
Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
-
Pasta Water: 1/2 cup (reserved)
-
Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
-
Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
-
Make the Sauce: Lower the heat, pour in the heavy cream, and stir well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
-
Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
-
Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
-
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
-
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
-
Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
-
Vegetarian Option: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes.
-
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
-
Extra Cheesy: Mix in shredded mozzarella for a gooey texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: creamy garlic pasta, easy pasta recipe, comfort food, Parmesan pasta, garlic butter sauce