Go Back
Creamy Garlic Pasta plated and ready to eat is the featured image for this delicious recipe.
Lady Maria

Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta

This creamy garlic pasta recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish that's easy to make. With simple ingredients and a few key techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pasta fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, or rotini
  • Salt for pasta water
  • 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup reserved pasta water
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes
  • Optional: Extra Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet or pot
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • grater
  • knife
  • Cutting board
  • Tongs or pasta fork

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  3. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. Set it aside.
  4. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Do not rinse it.
  5. In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  6. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  7. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  8. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
  9. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  10. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  11. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce.
  12. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
  13. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
  14. Continue to toss until the pasta is heated through.
  15. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Don't burn the garlic; sauté it over medium-low heat. Reserve pasta water – it's essential for a creamy sauce. Adjust the sauce consistency with pasta water or by simmering. Add protein (chicken, shrimp, sausage) or vegetables (mushrooms, spinach) for variations. Spice it up with red pepper flakes. A little lemon zest or fresh herbs can add brightness. The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.