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Creamy Garlic Pasta

Creamy Garlic Pasta
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Creamy Garlic Pasta is a rich, velvety dish featuring tender pasta strands coated in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce. Easy to prepare with simple pantry staples, this comforting meal is ready in under 30 minutes and customizable with various proteins, vegetables, or dairy-free options, perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti

Sauce

  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Reserved pasta water (about ¼ cup), as needed

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain well, reserving a small cup of pasta water for the sauce.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add minced fresh garlic. Sauté gently until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes, careful not to burn.
  3. Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic butter. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, thickening slightly while releasing that irresistible creamy aroma.
  4. Add Parmesan and Season: Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and silky smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, slowly stir in the reserved pasta water until desired consistency.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat each strand evenly with the creamy garlic sauce. Warm through for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for color and a burst of freshness just before serving warm.

Notes

  • Use fresh minced garlic for the best, brightest flavor.
  • Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy texture when combined with the sauce.
  • Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it bind to the noodles.
  • Grate Parmesan fresh for a richer, smoother melt than pre-shredded types.
  • Simmer the sauce gently on low heat to keep it silky and prevent curdling.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy garlic pasta, garlic pasta recipe, easy pasta sauce, comfort food, creamy pasta sauce

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/creamy-garlic-pasta/