There’s nothing like the smell of garlic sizzling in butter on a cozy weeknight. This CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN PASTA envelops your senses in warmth and richness, making it a top choice for dinner lovers everywhere. It’s that ultimate comfort meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
Think creamy, dreamy pasta tossed with garlic and parmesan. It’s like your favorite Italian restaurant dish, but you can whip it up in just 20 minutes! The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity you likely have all the ingredients in your pantry. Plus, with a creamy sauce that clings to each noodle, your family will think you slaved away for hours!
I started making this dish on busy Tuesday nights back in 2015, when my kids were always starving after school. The first time I served it, my oldest said it was “the best pasta ever!” I quickly learned that the key is to reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency. After years of sharing cozy meals here, I can promise, this creamy bowl is a winner every single time.
Yesica Andrews
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Perfect Comfort Dish
Enjoy a rich and velvety Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. This garlic parmesan pasta recipe features tender tagliatelle swirled in a luscious cheese and cream sauce. Whether you’re looking for a one pot creamy garlic pasta or a simple yet flavorful meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Related keywords for Pinterest in the USA, in one line separated by commas: creamy garlic parmesan pasta, one pot creamy garlic pasta, garlic parmesan pasta recipe, cheesy garlic parmesan noodles, easy creamy pasta recipe, keto garlic parmesan pasta, creamy garlic pasta with chicken, baked garlic parmesan pasta, 20 minute garlic parmesan pasta, creamy garlic parmesan fettuccine naturally
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook tagliatelle according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and keep it aside.
Meanwhile, melt butter in a wide skillet over medium heat until it bubbles, about one minute. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, around one minute.
Mix in the flour promptly to create a smooth paste.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps and combine fully.
Continue by adding heavy cream gradually while whisking to keep the sauce smooth. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce along with salt, parmesan cheese, and parsley. Toss everything thoroughly until well coated.
Plate and garnish with additional parmesan and parsley if you like. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Notes
*Cooking and prep times are approximate and may vary by appliance. Serve with a fresh salad for a more rounded meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip this up in about 20 minutes!
Creamy Comfort: The combination of heavy cream and parmesan creates a deliciously rich sauce that feels like a cozy hug.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy garlic parmesan pasta, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main dish, a side, or even add in cooked chicken or veggies for a heartier meal.
Key Ingredients
Ingredient
Purpose
Tagliatelle
Soft noodles that hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Butter
Adds flavor and richness to the sauce.
Garlic
Gives the dish its aromatic and savory foundation.
Heavy Cream
Provides the silky texture we all love in creamy pastas.
Parmesan Cheese
Brings a salty, cheesy flavor that’s irresistible.
How It Works: Step-by-Step
Boil the tagliatelle according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about one minute.
Stir in the flour, mixing quickly to form a roux, then gradually whisk in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream until smooth.
Add the drained pasta, salt, grated Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well until everything is coated in that dreamy sauce.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
For a creamier sauce, add a bit more cream or cheese to your liking.
If your pasta clumps together, ensure it’s well-coated in sauce, and a splash of pasta water can help keep it silky.
Tweaks and Variations
Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in sautéed spinach, broccoli, or peas for added nutrition and color.
Herb Substitutions: Try adding fresh basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Storage Tips
Storage Method
Duration
Refrigerator
3–4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer
Up to 2 months. Reheat gently to restore creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a fresh garden salad for a beautiful contrast in textures.
Sprinkle some extra parmesan and chopped parsley on top for garnish before serving.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up that luscious saucebecause who doesn’t love a little extra indulgence?
Expert Says
For a truly luscious and flavorful creamy garlic parmesan pasta, consider using freshly grated Parmesan. The finer texture allows it to melt more evenly, creating a rich, silky sauce. Additionally, incorporating a bit of pasta cooking water can enhance the sauce’s creaminess while helping it adhere better to the noodles.
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The Quest for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
This creamy garlic parmesan pasta took me countless attempts to finesse. I laughed at my early mishaps, like the time I mistook salt for sugarwhat a disaster! But with every little tweak, I finally landed on the perfect blend of flavors that are both rich and comforting. Now, it’s a family favorite at our dinner table.
FAQs ( Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta )
What is the best pasta for this recipe?
For this dish, fettuccine or linguine are ideal due to their ability to hold the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to use any pasta you prefer, including penne or spaghetti, for a delicious result.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove while cooking the pasta to combine when you’re ready to serve.
How can I add protein to this meal?
To add protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. You can also throw in cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
This recipe can be made keto-friendly by substituting traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. You can still enjoy the creamy texture with a low-carb twist.
What are some side dishes to serve?
Pairing this meal with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad complements the richness of the dish. Steamed vegetables or a simple caprese salad work wonderfully too.
Conclusion
You’ll love how quick and easy this CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN PASTA comes together, turning a simple weeknight into a cozy feast in just 20 minutes! The creamy, garlicky goodness clings to each strand of pasta, and the aroma? Pure heaven.
Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or protein to mix things up! And remember, if you’ve got leftovers, a splash of cream or a quick zap in the microwave will keep that delightful texture intact. Trust me, it’s a trick I picked up from my aunt’s kitchen!
I’d love to see how your version turns out! Did you grow up with a dish like this? Share your photos or stories in the comments below. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next family gatheringit’s bound to create delicious memories!
