Links you click on in this post may earn us a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make meal, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Pasta. This classic dish combines the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese with a creamy sauce, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. And did we mention that it’s way cheaper than eating out? In this post, we’ll guide you through the steps to make Garlic Parmesan Pasta, including tips and variations to customize the dish to your liking. Hope you love it! Here’s another easy dish to whip up if you love this one.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by itself or paired with your favorite protein or vegetables. Here are a few reasons why this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights. You can also double the recipe and have leftovers.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and savory flavor that’s super hard to resist.
- Customizable: You can easily add tofu, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to this pasta.
- Comforting: This creamy pasta is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for satisfying cravings. Saves well (it honestly might even taste better the next day, honestly.
Tasty Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 4 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes optional, for a bit of heat
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. Reserve a cup of pasta water for later use.
Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until it begins to simmer.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pasta is heated through and well-coated with the sauce.
Serve
- Serve the Garlic Parmesan Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Pair the pasta with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon to the pasta.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in some sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for added nutrients and color.
- Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream to reduce the fat content.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts on this Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its rich, creamy sauce and the irresistible flavors of garlic and Parmesan, it’s a dish that you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.