Description
This creamy garlic parmesan pasta is a deliciously rich and comforting dish made with simple ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a decadent side, it combines al dente pasta with a luscious garlic butter and Parmesan sauce that comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped parsley
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
- Melt butter and sauté garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add cream and simmer: Pour in the heavy cream (or milk) and allow it to gently simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Incorporate Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to evenly coat it with the sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Season and garnish: Season the pasta sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.
Notes
- Enhance this dish by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- For best flavor and texture, serve the pasta immediately after preparation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
