Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta

Name: Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g spaghetti or fettuccine; Salt for boiling water; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Indulge in this rich and creamy garlic pasta that's quick to make and full of flavor.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2025-12-23T01:27:46.285Z

This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy date night at home. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that everyone will love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta
Garlic aroma that fills your kitchen and makes your mouth water
Ready in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a delicious dinner can feel overwhelming. This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is designed to be your go-to weeknight dish. With a cooking time of just 25 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters in the family. It’s simple enough for novice cooks yet indulgent enough to impress guests.

The combination of spaghetti or fettuccine with a rich, creamy garlic sauce creates a comforting dish that feels luxurious without the fuss. You can easily double the recipe to serve a crowd or enjoy leftovers for lunch. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread, and you have a complete meal that requires minimal effort.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this creamy garlic pasta is its versatility. While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to add your favorite proteins or vegetables for a more filling dish. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables can elevate this pasta into a gourmet experience. The creamy sauce also pairs beautifully with a variety of ingredients, allowing you to get creative based on what you have on hand.

If you’re looking to lighten the dish, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also play around with different types of cheese; for instance, adding some mozzarella for a gooey texture or a sprinkle of feta for a tangy kick will add depth to the flavor.

Ingredients

Pasta

300g spaghetti or fettuccine
Salt for boiling water

Creamy Sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Mix and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy garlic pasta!

Tips for the Perfect Pasta

Cooking pasta perfectly is a skill that can elevate any dish. Always remember to salt your boiling water generously; it should taste like the sea. This step enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. Additionally, be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as different brands and types of pasta may vary.

For an added layer of flavor, consider toasting your garlic slightly longer until it turns golden before adding the cream. This brings out its natural sweetness and adds depth to your sauce. Just be cautious not to burn it, as burnt garlic can become bitter.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the creamy garlic pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore the sauce's creamy texture. Avoid microwaving it directly, as the sauce can become clumpy and lose its velvety consistency.

For those who love meal prep, this recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just be sure to undercook the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook when reheated. This makes it a perfect candidate for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer!

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, just ensure the Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes would work great.