Creamy Garlic Pasta

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Pasta is one of those timeless dishes that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary comfort food. With just garlic, cream, Parmesan cheese, and pasta, you can create a luxurious, restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes—all in one pan. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners at home, or those moments when you want something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes Creamy Garlic Pasta so special is its balance. The garlic is fragrant but not overpowering, the cream is rich yet smooth, and the Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth that ties everything together. Each strand of spaghetti is perfectly coated in a silky sauce that feels elegant while still being approachable and comforting.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a simple vegetarian meal, or transform it into an Alfredo-style dinner by adding prawns, scallops, chicken, or even crispy bacon. Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra texture and nutrition. No matter how you customize it, this Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe delivers every time.

If you’re looking for a dependable, crowd-pleasing pasta recipe that tastes like it came straight from an Italian-inspired kitchen, this is it.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Pasta

There are countless pasta recipes out there, but this Creamy Garlic Pasta stands out for several reasons:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.

• One-Pan Recipe: Fewer dishes and easier cleanup.

• Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples you likely already have.

• Customizable: Add proteins, vegetables, or herbs to suit your taste.

• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, garlicky, and satisfying without being heavy.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe is guaranteed to impress.

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Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Category: Dinner / Pasta

• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

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Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Pasta

This Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe uses simple ingredients that work together to create bold, comforting flavors.

• 2 teaspoons olive oil

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 3 cups chicken broth (plus more if needed)

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ½ pound spaghetti

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¾ cup heavy cream

• 1½ tablespoons dried parsley

Ingredient Notes

• Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic won’t deliver the same aroma or depth.

• Chicken Broth: Adds flavor while cooking the pasta directly in the sauce. You can substitute vegetable broth if needed.

• Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, creamier sauce.

• Heavy Cream: Creates that rich, silky texture that defines Creamy Garlic Pasta.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

2. Melt the Butter

Add the butter to the pan and stir until fully melted. This combination of olive oil and butter adds richness and depth to the base of the sauce.

3. Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and season with black pepper and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

4. Cook the Pasta

Add the spaghetti directly to the pan. Cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the liquid reduces too quickly, add a bit more broth as needed.

5. Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and dried parsley. Mix until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and coats the pasta evenly.

6. Serve

Serve immediately while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.

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Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Pasta

• Use Fresh Garlic: It makes a noticeable difference in flavor.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta holds the sauce better.

• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.

• Adjust Sauce Consistency: Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.

• Serve Immediately: Creamy Garlic Pasta is best enjoyed fresh and hot.

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Creamy Garlic Pasta Variations

One of the best things about Creamy Garlic Pasta is how easily it adapts to different tastes and dietary needs.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Add sautéed prawns or shrimp during the final few minutes of cooking for a seafood-inspired version.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Top with grilled or pan-seared chicken breast for a hearty, protein-packed meal.

Creamy Garlic Scallop Pasta

Seared scallops elevate this dish into a restaurant-worthy dinner.

Vegetarian Creamy Garlic Pasta

Add mushrooms, spinach, peas, or roasted vegetables for extra texture and nutrition.

Extra Cheesy Version

Stir in a little mozzarella or Pecorino Romano along with the Parmesan for added richness.

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What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Pasta

This Creamy Garlic Pasta pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:

• Garlic bread or crusty bread

• Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Roasted vegetables

• Grilled chicken or seafood

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead

Creamy Garlic Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat gently before adding cooked pasta.

Storage

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

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Print

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 543 kcal

• Protein: 17 g

• Fat: 32 g

• Carbohydrates: 47 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 3 g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Whole milk works best as a substitute.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free spaghetti and follow the same instructions.

Is Creamy Garlic Pasta the same as Alfredo?

They’re similar, but traditional Alfredo uses butter and Parmesan without cream. This version is an Italian-inspired, creamy variation.

Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Pasta?

Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so freezing is not recommended.

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Why Creamy Garlic Pasta Is a Weeknight Favorite

Creamy Garlic Pasta has everything you want in a reliable dinner recipe: speed, simplicity, and indulgent flavor. It doesn’t require fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, yet it tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant. The one-pan method makes cleanup easy, and the flexibility allows you to adapt it to whatever you have on hand.

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Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Pasta is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With its rich garlic aroma, velvety cream sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, it’s a dish that feels both indulgent and approachable. Whether you enjoy it as a simple vegetarian pasta or customize it with seafood, chicken, or vegetables, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.