Description
This creamy garlic pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish featuring perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a velvety garlic cream sauce made with fresh garlic, butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, finished with fresh herbs for a flavorful and comforting meal ideal for a quick dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
Sauce
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving one cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced fresh garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly, then allow it to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to thicken. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Parmesan and Combine: Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and forms a velvety sauce.
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to ensure every noodle is coated evenly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water in small amounts to achieve the desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling the chopped fresh parsley or basil over the pasta and serve immediately while warm and comforting.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic while sautéing to avoid bitterness.
- You can substitute fresh parsley or basil according to your preference or omit if unavailable.
- This recipe is best served immediately for optimal creaminess and texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
