Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that everyone loves. It is simple to make, requires just a few ingredients, and is perfect for a weeknight dinner. With its rich and creamy sauce, this pasta dish delivers a satisfying meal that feels special, making it great for family gatherings or when entertaining friends.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta warm, straight from the skillet. It makes a great main dish or can accompany grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. A side salad or garlic bread pairs well to complete the meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
How to Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
- For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic.
Variation
You can customize this dish in many ways. Try adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables, such as broccoli or peas, to make it heartier. You can also use different types of pasta, like fettuccine or penne.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve, then combine it with the sauce.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use milk or half-and-half, but keep in mind the sauce will be less creamy.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute to make this dish gluten-free while still enjoying the creamy garlic flavor.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces pasta Use your favorite pasta type.
- 2 tablespoons butter Unsalted butter is preferable.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Freshly minced for best flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with milk or half-and-half.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish Use for a fresh flavor and presentation.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.