Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta

Name: Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 4 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic with a creamy sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2025-12-23T03:03:29.057Z

This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor. It's a great option for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor that elevates the dish
Creamy texture that coats each pasta strand perfectly
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any night

      

Perfect for Busy Nights

Life can get hectic, and finding time to cook a delicious meal can be a challenge. This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe is your go-to solution for those busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a satisfying dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes. The combination of pasta, garlic, and creamy sauce means you won't have to sacrifice flavor for speed.

Moreover, this dish is versatile. You can easily adapt it by adding in your favorite vegetables or proteins, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed spinach. This way, you can customize the pasta according to your family's preferences while keeping the preparation quick and simple.

A Family Favorite

One of the best aspects of this Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is how well it appeals to all ages. Kids love the creamy texture and mild garlic flavor, while adults appreciate the richness and depth of taste. It’s a dish that brings the family together, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

To make it even more enticing for children, consider letting them help with the cooking process. Simple tasks like stirring ingredients or garnishing with parsley can make them feel involved and excited about their meal. This not only enhances their culinary skills but also promotes a sense of family and togetherness around the dining table.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, this Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat. You may want to add a splash of milk or more cream to restore its creamy texture as it reheats, preventing it from becoming dry.

Alternatively, you can freeze the pasta for longer storage. Just be aware that the texture may slightly change upon thawing. It’s best to freeze it without the fresh parsley garnish and add it just before serving for that fresh touch.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

400g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious creamy garlic pasta!

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread. A light Caesar salad or a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta, providing a refreshing balance to your meal.

For a complete Italian experience, consider serving a glass of white wine alongside your meal. A crisp Pinot Grigio or a light Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the flavors of the garlic and cream, making your dinner feel more special.

Customizing Your Pasta

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can elevate the dish and add nutritional value. If you prefer a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can bring a delightful kick.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese. While Parmesan is traditional, mixing in some Pecorino Romano or even a bit of goat cheese can add unique flavors and textures to your creamy sauce, making it even more indulgent.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit any meat and use vegetable broth if you want to enhance the flavor.

→ How can I make the sauce lighter?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative.

→ Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Yes, vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes work well in this dish.