Rich and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta 🍝🧄🧈
Silky, savory, and ultra-comforting, this creamy garlic parmesan pasta comes together in just 20 minutes for an easy weeknight win.
If you love buttery garlic, melty Parmesan, and pasta that hugs every bit of sauce—this Rich and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is your dream bowl. Made with just a handful of ingredients, it’s the perfect dish when you’re short on time but craving something indulgent.
From date night to busy weeknights, it’s a reliable comfort food that’s fast, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe proves that simple can still be luxurious. The combination of garlic sautéed in butter, thickened cream, and real Parmesan cheese gives you a restaurant-style sauce in minutes.
If you love cozy pasta dishes like Instant Pot lasagna or comforting casseroles like chicken enchiladas, you’ll adore the creamy, garlicky goodness in this pasta bowl.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions.
Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup pasta water (optional) to thin the sauce later if needed.
2️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Base
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3️⃣ Add the Cream
Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
4️⃣ Stir in the Parmesan
Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5️⃣ Toss the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until fully coated in sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
6️⃣ Serve and Garnish
Plate immediately and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for the perfect meal.
Tips for Creamy Pasta Success
✔️ Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
✔️ Grate your own Parmesan for best melting and richness.
✔️ Don’t overcook the sauce—cream thickens quickly!
✔️ Want protein? Add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta is perfect with:
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- Grilled chicken or salmon for added protein
- A side of sheet pan quesadillas for a fusion twist
- A glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon
For bigger appetites, serve alongside Mexican chicken and rice casserole or Dorito casserole to round out your comfort food table.
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Freezer: Not recommended due to cream-based sauce texture changes.
More Creamy Comfort Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re all about rich sauces and cozy dinners, try these next:
- This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast
- These Chicken Enchiladas Are My Go-To for Cozy, Crowd-Pleasing Dinners
- This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas Are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast
- This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
Final Thoughts
This Rich and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is proof that you don’t need a long ingredient list or hours in the kitchen to make something special. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is easy enough for any night of the week.
Try it once and you’ll be adding it to your regular dinner rotation—guaranteed! 🍝🧄✨
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