Creamy Garlic Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g spaghetti; Salt for boiling; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Savor the rich, velvety goodness of this Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe. This easy-to-make dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with a luscious garlic cream sauce that's bursting with flavor. It's quick enough for weeknight dinners but elegant enough to impress guests. Perfectly paired with fresh herbs and your favorite protein, this decadent pasta is a delightful staple in any home cook's collection.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-12T04:37:21.508Z

This Creamy Garlic Pasta is not just a meal but an experience. Each bite is filled with love and warmth, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

The Perfect Pasta Dish for Any Occasion

Creamy Garlic Pasta is not just any pasta dish; it's a versatile staple that can adapt to various occasions. Whether you're planning a cozy date night or a family gathering, this dish impresses with its rich flavors and elegant presentation. The balance of creamy sauce and al dente pasta creates a satisfying meal that shines on any table.

This recipe is designed for easy preparation, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Yet, it also possesses a sophistication that makes it suitable for entertaining friends or celebrating special moments. It's the kind of dish that encourages second helpings and lively conversations around the dinner table.

Health Benefits of Garlic

Garlic is not only a key ingredient that infuses this dish with flavor but also boasts numerous health benefits. Known for its potential to boost the immune system, garlic has long been praised for its ability to ward off colds and other ailments. Adding garlic to your meals can enhance your overall health while elevating taste.

Additionally, garlic is linked to cardiovascular health. It contains compounds that can help lower cholesterol levels and hypertension. Thus, indulging in Creamy Garlic Pasta is not just a treat for your taste buds; it's also a step towards better health when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Garlic Pasta

To ensure your Creamy Garlic Pasta turns out just right, consider using high-quality ingredients. Fresh garlic, rich heavy cream, and aged Parmesan cheese can significantly elevate the dish's flavor profile. Also, don’t rush the sautéing process; allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning is crucial for achieving the best taste.

When tossing the pasta with the sauce, add a splash of pasta cooking water if the sauce feels too thick. This will help create a silky texture that clings beautifully to the strands of spaghetti. Finally, garnish generously with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese to enhance both presentation and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients for this delightful dish.

Pasta

400g spaghetti
Salt for boiling

Garlic Cream Sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped for an easy cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic cream sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Pasta!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish vegetarian? Simply omit any added protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, if you're adding any. It remains delicious and satisfying as a standalone vegetarian meal.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time? Yes! The garlic cream sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently when you're ready to combine it with the pasta.

Suggested Pairings

This Creamy Garlic Pasta pairs beautifully with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the richness of the sauce. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving chilled lemonade or sparkling water with a hint of lemon for a refreshing contrast.

For protein lovers, grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms make excellent additions. They not only enhance the dish’s nutritional profile but also provide varying textures and flavors, making each bite interesting and satisfying.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld and can be even better the next day. However, creamy sauces can thicken when refrigerated, so you may need to add a splash of cream or pasta water when reheating.

To reheat, it’s best to do so on the stovetop over low heat to avoid curdling. Stir frequently and add a little liquid as needed to return the pasta to its creamy consistency. This gentle rewarming preserves both the flavor and texture of your delicious meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works well and adds a nutty flavor.

→ How can I make it vegan?

Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.