Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a timeless dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese with a velvety cream sauce. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a main course or paired with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables. The creamy sauce envelops each strand of pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.
Prepare the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve and Garnish
Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for added protein and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for extra heat.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to add color and nutrients to the dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or linguine.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

To make this recipe dairy-free, use a plant-based cream and dairy-free Parmesan cheese.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid, or add more grated Parmesan cheese.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the cream sauce may separate upon reheating.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a smoother sauce, but pre-grated cheese can be used in a pinch.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Sauté the garlic over medium heat and stir frequently to prevent it from burning.

Can I add herbs to the sauce?

Yes, fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano can be added for additional flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is mildly spicy due to the optional red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. With its rich, creamy sauce and the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite protein, this dish offers a satisfying meal that pleases the palate.

Chef MARTHA