Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta

Name: Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 225 g spaghetti; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 handful fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

30 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Rich and velvety, this creamy garlic pasta is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Prep

10 min

Cook

20 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Creamy garlic pasta is a beloved classic that combines the robust flavour of garlic with a rich, velvety sauce. This version is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress at a dinner party. The balance of cream, parmesan, and garlic creates a comforting dish that is both delicious and satisfying. For those who crave a quick and delicious pasta dish, this creamy garlic pasta delivers on both flavour and ease. The silky sauce coats every strand of pasta, making each bite a luxurious experience. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Pro tip: Don't forget to reserve some pasta water for the sauce.

Prepare garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.

Make the sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic. Stir and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Add Parmesan

Reduce the heat to low and add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts into the sauce.

Pro tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture.

Season the sauce

Add salt and black pepper to the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.

Pro tip: Toss the pasta quickly to ensure even coating.

Garnish and serve

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Pro tip: Serve with extra Parmesan on the side for cheese lovers.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh garlic for the best flavour.
Adjust creaminess by adding more or less cream.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in creamy garlic pasta?

There are approximately 500 calories per serving in this creamy garlic pasta.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, you can use milk for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less creamy.

How do I make the pasta sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer or add more Parmesan to thicken it.

Can I add chicken to this recipe?

Yes, grilled or sautéed chicken can be added for extra protein.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe uses regular spaghetti, but you can substitute with gluten-free pasta.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze creamy garlic pasta?

It's not recommended as the cream sauce can separate when thawed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy garlic pasta with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and pair it with a crisp green salad for a complete meal. This dish can be made ahead; simply reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if needed to reach the desired consistency. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy this meal as a comforting solo dinner or as the centrepiece of a larger gathering.

Nutrition per serving

500

Calories

12g

Protein

25g

Fat

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