Name: Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine or linguine; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Indulge in a creamy garlic pasta that wraps around your taste buds like a warm hug on a chilly evening. With its rich and velvety sauce, each bite delivers a delightful explosion of garlicky goodness, making it an irresistible comfort food that feels like home.

Picture this: a busy weeknight, you stumble upon this recipe and suddenly the aroma of sautéed garlic fills your kitchen. You can’t help but drool as you anticipate the comforting embrace of creamy pasta, perfect for dinner with friends or a cozy night in.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy garlic pasta is not only easy to whip up, but it’s bursting with flavor that will impress anyone at your dinner table
The luscious sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, creating a visually stunning dish
Versatile enough for any occasion, it pairs perfectly with vegetables or proteins of your choice

Every time I make this creamy garlic pasta, my friends rave about how it’s become their new favorite dish.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: I recommend using fettuccine or linguine for their ability to hold the creamy sauce effectively.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for fresh cloves to achieve that aromatic punch that jarred alternatives simply can’t match.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient transforms the dish into a rich and luscious experience; don’t skimp on quality here.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for maximum flavor; pre-grated versions lack the same depth of taste.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its fruity notes that complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those fantastic flavors we’re building; don’t forget to taste as you go!
Parsley (optional): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, elevating both presentation and flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and golden brown—this should take about 1-2 minutes, but watch closely so it doesn’t burn.

Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat slightly and pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly. Allow it to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly; this is where all that magic happens.

Add Cheese & Seasoning: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted into the sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences; remember, tasting is key!

Toss in the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until every noodle is luxuriously coated in that divine garlic creaminess.

Serve & Garnish: Plate your creamy garlic pasta hot from the stove, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy watching everyone’s eyes light up as they take their first bite!

Now that you’ve mastered this creamy garlic pasta, don’t be surprised when it becomes your go-to meal for every occasion!

You Must Know

This creamy garlic pasta dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare
The blend of garlic and cream creates a seductive aroma that fills your kitchen
Perfect for a cozy dinner or when you’re impressing guests without much effort

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta first; while it cooks, sauté garlic in butter for an aromatic sauce. Combine everything before serving for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor. You can also swap out the cream for a dairy-free alternative if desired.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, try using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged versions
Cooking pasta al dente ensures perfect texture, so avoid overcooking it
Always taste as you go; adjusting seasoning makes all the difference in cooking!

Sharing this recipe with my friends last week led to spontaneous applause—turns out they loved my creamy garlic pasta more than I anticipated!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for heavy cream in creamy garlic pasta?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option.

How long does it take to cook the pasta?

Usually, cook the pasta for about 8-10 minutes until al dente.

Can I make creamy garlic pasta ahead of time?

Yes, just reheat gently to keep it creamy and delicious!