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Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

4.9 from 132 reviews

This Creamy Garlic Pasta is a luscious and comforting dish featuring tender fettuccine smothered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal, it balances bold garlic flavor with smooth, cheesy indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti

Sauce

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
  3. Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and let the cream thicken slightly for about 5 minutes.
  4. Add Parmesan and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  5. Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat the noodles evenly in the sauce.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately while warm. Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting quality and flavor.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on the saltiness of the cheese.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk but expect a thinner sauce.
  • Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or steamed vegetables can enhance this dish for more protein and nutrition.
  • Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter and affect the sauce’s taste.

Keywords: creamy garlic pasta, garlic pasta recipe, creamy pasta sauce, fettuccine Alfredo, easy Italian dinner, garlic cream sauce pasta