Creamy Garlic Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, garlicky, and velvety smooth. It’s quick to make, yet tastes like something straight from a restaurant. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or spaghetti
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream, whisk to combine, and simmer on low for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Stir in Parmesan, salt, and black pepper until the cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Serve:
Garnish with parsley, if desired. Serve warm with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest texture.
Garlic: Adjust the garlic amount depending on your preference; roasting it adds a sweeter, milder flavor.
Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream.
Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms make a hearty addition.