Creamy Garlic Pasta
A comforting dish that combines creamy flavors with the robust taste of garlic, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces Pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne) Whole wheat or gluten-free options can be used.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic is key for flavor.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated Nutritional yeast can be a vegan substitute.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Butter can be used for a richer flavor.
- Salt and Pepper to taste Freshly cracked black pepper enhances the dish.
- 1 handful Fresh Parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cooking the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, allowing it to warm up until it starts bubbling gently.
- Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and forms a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to reach the desired consistency.
Combining and Serving
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat every strand with the creamy sauce.
- Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for garnish.
Notes
Consider adding sautéed vegetables or proteins like chicken or shrimp for additional flavors. This dish can be personalized to suit your taste.