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Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy and savory pasta dish combining tender spaghetti or fettuccine with rich garlic butter sauce and sharp Parmesan cheese. This quick and easy recipe brings comforting, indulgent flavor to your table in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests. Versatile and kid-friendly, it’s a simple yet elegant meal that can be customized with proteins, veggies, or herbs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving one cup of pasta water for later.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced fresh garlic and sauté until fragrant and slightly golden, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic butter. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  4. Add Parmesan Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a thick, creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve perfect consistency. Mix thoroughly to ensure every noodle is coated with the flavorful sauce.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness just before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and richer flavor.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; al dente works best for sauce absorption.
  • Reserve pasta water to thin the sauce if needed and help it cling to the noodles.
  • Sauté garlic on medium heat to avoid bitterness and maintain a mellow flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs after cooking to preserve their vibrant color and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic parmesan pasta, creamy pasta, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, family-friendly pasta, vegetarian pasta