This Creamy Garlic Pasta is an easy, indulgent weeknight dish. The pasta is coated in a rich, velvety sauce made from garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, creating a comforting and flavorful meal in minutes.
Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti or pasta of choice | 300g (10 oz) |
| Garlic cloves, peeled and smashed | 6–8 |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Heavy cream | 1 1/2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Black pepper, ground | 1/4 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional) | For garnish |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | For heat |
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic cloves and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fragrant. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Step 3: Add the Cream
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and allow it to warm for 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Parmesan and Seasonings
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted into a smooth sauce. Season with black pepper and salt. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Toss Pasta with Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat evenly in the creamy garlic sauce. Add extra pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
