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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a rich, silky, and comforting pasta dish made with a velvety garlic-parmesan cream sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Ready in about 25 minutes, it’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner that tastes just like your favorite restaurant pasta.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta such as spaghetti, fettuccine or penne
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
  • 3 tbsp butter unsalted
  • 1 tbsp olive oil extra-virgin
  • 3 garlic cloves minced (use 4 cloves for extra garlic flavor)
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream room temperature
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • salt and black pepper to taste
To Serve
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • extra grated parmesan for serving

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter is melted and foamy.
  3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the cream warms through.
  5. Gradually whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
  6. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well until all the pasta is evenly coated, adding more pasta water as needed for a silky texture.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley. Serve immediately with extra grated parmesan on top.

Notes

For extra protein, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon. You can also stir in spinach or peas for added color and veggies. Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.