There are some dinners that save the day, and this creamy garlic pasta is one of them. It’s the kind of meal you make when you’re tired, hungry, and want something that tastes like it took real effort — when it actually comes together in about 20 minutes. The sauce is simple: butter, a lot of garlic, cream, and a mountain of Parmesan. That’s it. And honestly, that’s all it needs.
I’ve made this creamy garlic pasta recipe more times than I can count, and it never gets old. It’s rich without being heavy, garlicky without being sharp, and the sauce clings to every strand of spaghetti like it was made to. Serve it as a weeknight dinner with a simple green salad, or dress it up with grilled chicken or shrimp when you’re feeding a crowd.
Creamy Garlic Pasta
Rich, velvety, and on the table in 20 minutes - the perfect weeknight dinner made with pantry staples.
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Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the Parmesan and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce until it coats every strand.
- Finish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.