Creamy Garlic Pasta (Simple & Satisfying Weeknight Dinner)

Introduction

This Creamy Garlic Pasta is the kind of meal you can make with pantry staples — yet it tastes like something from your favorite Italian trattoria. Made with fresh garlic, cream, Parmesan, and a splash of pasta water, it creates a velvety sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Best of all? It comes together in about 20 minutes, making it the ultimate go-to for busy nights or lazy weekends.

Simple, rich, and full of flavor, this is pasta at its coziest. Serve it solo or with your favorite protein or vegetables.

Ingredients Overview

Pasta

• Spaghetti, fettuccine, linguine, or penne all work beautifully.
• Cook to al dente, and save at least ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.

Garlic

• The star of the show — use 4–6 cloves of fresh garlic, finely minced or grated.
• Sautéed gently in butter or olive oil until golden, not browned.

Butter & Olive Oil

• Butter adds richness; olive oil prevents burning.
• Use 2 tbsp each for balanced flavor and proper sautéing.

Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half

• For that creamy texture. Use ¾ to 1 cup, depending on desired thickness.
• For a lighter option, use evaporated milk or whole milk + a bit of butter.

Parmesan Cheese

• Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the cream for a luscious finish.
• Use about ½ cup, more for garnish.

Seasonings

• Salt & black pepper — essential
• Optional:
  • Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
  • Italian seasoning or parsley for added aroma
  • Lemon zest for brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook 8 oz pasta until just al dente.
• Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté Garlic

• In a large skillet, heat:
  • 2 tbsp butter + 2 tbsp olive oil
• Add:
  • 4–6 cloves garlic, minced
• Cook over medium-low heat for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and just golden.

3. Add Cream

• Pour in ¾ to 1 cup heavy cream.
• Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.

4. Stir in Cheese

• Reduce heat and stir in:
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • A pinch of salt and black pepper
• Add a splash of pasta water to loosen if needed.

5. Toss Pasta

• Add cooked pasta to the pan.
• Toss until evenly coated, adding more pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.

6. Finish & Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or red pepper flakes.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Add protein: Try grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta.
• Make it herby: Add fresh basil or thyme for a garden-fresh twist.
• Make it zesty: A squeeze of lemon or a touch of lemon zest brightens the richness.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan (results may vary).
• Vegan version: Use olive oil, unsweetened cashew cream, and nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This creamy garlic pasta is ideal for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Date-night meals at home
• Quick lunch leftovers
• Side dish alongside roast chicken or grilled veggies

Pair it with:

• Garlic bread
• A crisp green salad
• Roasted broccoli or asparagus
• A glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish is rich and indulgent — ideal for comfort but easy to balance with veggies or lean proteins.

Per serving (1 of 2–3):

• Calories: ~550–600
• Protein: ~14g
• Carbs: ~55g
• Fat: ~30g
• Calcium-rich from Parmesan and cream

To lighten it:

• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
• Add steamed spinach or roasted mushrooms
• Use whole-wheat pasta for more fiber

FAQs

Q1: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A1: Yes, but it will be thinner. Add 1 tbsp butter and a bit of extra cheese to help thicken.

Q2: How can I store and reheat leftovers?
A2: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or water to loosen.

Q3: Can I add veggies to this dish?
A3: Absolutely. Try spinach, peas, mushrooms, or zucchini sautéed with the garlic.

Q4: Why is my sauce too thick?
A4: Just add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, and stir until it loosens.

Q5: Can I double this recipe?
A5: Yes, just scale the ingredients and use a large enough skillet to toss the pasta easily.

Q6: Is this recipe spicy?
A6: Not unless you add chili flakes. Keep it mild or turn up the heat based on your preference.

Q7: What pasta shape works best?
A7: Long noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine are traditional, but short shapes like penne also work well.

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