Irresistible Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe in 30 Minutes

The aroma of creamy garlic pasta wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses with its rich buttery scent, mingled with the earthy allure of fresh garlic. Picture this: a plate filled with twirling strands of pasta, glistening in a velvety sauce that clings like an old friend – comforting and warm.

As I stirred my first batch of creamy garlic pasta years ago, I felt like a culinary wizard conjuring magic with just a few simple ingredients. This dish is perfect for cozy nights in, spontaneous gatherings, or when you just need a hug in food form. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will dance on your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Any type works well; spaghetti or fettuccine holds the sauce beautifully.

• Fresh Garlic: Use about 6 cloves for robust flavor; adjust based on your love for garlic.

• Heavy Cream: This is where the creaminess comes from; opt for full-fat for the best results.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds a nutty depth; avoid pre-grated varieties for better melting.

• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; use it generously.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go to ensure perfection!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta

Let’s dive into the magical world of creamy garlic pasta making!

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on your choice. Drain it but reserve some pasta water for later.

Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and toss in minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but not browned—around 1-2 minutes—because burnt garlic is not our friend.

Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring gently. Let this simmer until thickened slightly—about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will have you swooning!

Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until it melts into that luscious sauce that dreams are made of.

Toss It All Together: Add your drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat each strand in creamy goodness. If it’s too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water until you achieve that dreamy consistency.

Serve Hot: Plate up your creamy garlic pasta while it’s still warm, perhaps garnished with extra cheese or parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every bite like you just won the dinner lottery!

Now you’re armed with all the steps needed to whip up this delightful creamy garlic pasta. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or Tuesday night at home alone (hey, we’ve all been there), this dish promises warmth and flavor that’ll make your heart sing!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta until al dente while you sauté minced garlic in butter. Once fragrant, mix in cream and parmesan to create that dreamy sauce. Finally, toss the pasta in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pasta type for your favorite or add in veggies like spinach or mushrooms. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give it a delightful kick. Experimenting with herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate your creamy garlic pasta.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover creamy garlic pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove with a splash of cream to revive its luscious texture.

It was one of those nights when I had friends over for dinner, and the pressure was on to impress. I whipped up this creamy garlic pasta, and as they dug in, their faces lit up with joy—it felt like winning a cooking Oscar!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Garlic Pasta?

For a delicious creamy garlic pasta, you will need spaghetti or your preferred pasta, fresh garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, butter, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish and red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. These components blend perfectly to create a rich and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare.

How long does it take to make Creamy Garlic Pasta?

You can whip up creamy garlic pasta in about 20-30 minutes. Cooking the pasta takes around 10-12 minutes, while preparing the creamy sauce requires an additional 10-15 minutes. This quick recipe makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I customize Creamy Garlic Pasta?

Absolutely! You can customize creamy garlic pasta in many ways. Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes can enhance the dish’s nutritional value and flavor profile. Experiment with different types of cheese or herbs to suit your palate and make this dish uniquely yours.

Is Creamy Garlic Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Creamy garlic pasta is great for meal prep! You can cook a large batch and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just remember to add a splash of cream or water when reheating to restore its creamy texture and ensure it remains delicious.

Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Pasta:

In summary, creamy garlic pasta offers a rich and satisfying meal that is both quick and easy to prepare. With simple ingredients like garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese, you can create a delightful dish in under 30 minutes. Customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables to suit your taste. Whether serving it on busy weeknights or enjoying it as part of meal prep, creamy garlic pasta promises comfort and flavor every time you make it.

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Creamy Garlic Pasta

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy garlic pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of fresh garlic and a smooth, velvety sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Each twirl of pasta coated in creamy goodness promises warmth and satisfaction, making it a sure hit at your dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until melted and well combined.
5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce. If too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 85mg