Cheesy Garlic Pasta
A creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines garlic and cheese for a heartwarming and comforting meal loved by the whole family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Spaghetti or Fettuccine Choose your favorite pasta for a delightful base.
- 4-6 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic offers depth; the more, the merrier!
- 4 tablespoons Butter Adds rich, velvety texture. Substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Gives the sauce its indulgent creaminess. Use Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a healthier option.
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Essential for that cheesy element; mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
- to taste Salt Enhances overall flavor.
- to taste Pepper Enhances overall flavor.
- optional Fresh Basil Adds a burst of freshness; substitute with dried basil if fresh isn’t available.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente. Stir occasionally, and remember to reserve about a cup of pasta water for later.
Sautéing Garlic
- While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
Making the Sauce
- Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to thicken, and season it generously with salt and pepper.
Adding Cheese
- Once your sauce has thickened slightly, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the parmesan cheese gradually until melted and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Drain the pasta and mix it into the cheesy garlic sauce, ensuring each strand is lovingly coated.
Finishing Touch
- If using, stir in the fresh basil. Give everything a gentle toss and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Notes
Serve alongside a simple green salad, crusty bread, and a glass of white wine. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.