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: 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is a delightful and simple dish that combines rich flavors with a creamy texture, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal anytime.

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2025-12-23T06:06:37.144Z

This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is a family favorite that brings together the simplicity of garlic and cream for a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that envelops each pasta piece
Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 25 minutes
Perfectly balanced flavors with a hint of garlic and parmesan

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious homemade meal, this Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is the answer. With minimal ingredients and a cooking time of just 25 minutes, it allows you to whip up a satisfying dish without the stress. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you're simply craving a comforting bowl of pasta.

The beauty of this pasta dish lies in its simplicity. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, or even protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. This versatility means you can enjoy it time and again without getting bored.

The Garlic and Parmesan Duo

Garlic is a culinary superstar, known for its aromatic qualities and health benefits. In this recipe, the minced garlic is sautéed to perfection, enhancing its flavor without overwhelming the dish. Paired with the rich cream and salty Parmesan cheese, it creates a harmonious blend that elevates the simple pasta to gourmet status.

Parmesan cheese adds a depth of flavor and a touch of nuttiness that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. As it melts into the dish, it creates a velvety texture that clings to every strand of pasta. Together, garlic and Parmesan make this dish irresistible and a guaranteed hit at your dinner table.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To achieve perfectly cooked pasta, remember to salt your boiling water generously. This not only flavors the pasta but also helps to enhance the overall taste of your dish. Cooking the pasta until al dente is crucial, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce.

Another tip is to reserve a little pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added to the sauce to adjust its consistency, making it even creamier. Don't forget to toss your pasta in the sauce over low heat to ensure every bite is coated evenly.

Ingredients

Pasta Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Combine Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Toss with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Enjoy your creamy garlic pasta as a delightful meal!

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, making for a satisfying dining experience.

If you want to impress your guests, consider serving this dish with a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity in the wine complements the creaminess of the sauce, creating a delightful pairing.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.

For best results, heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this dish even on your busy days!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

Yes, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This pasta pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or grilled chicken.