15 Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

When you need a quick, comforting meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, look no further than 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta. This dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with a velvety garlic-infused sauce for a meal that tastes like it came from your favorite restaurant – but with minimal effort.

this Recipe

I first whipped this up on a busy weeknight when the pantry was running low, and it’s been a lifesaver ever since. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s ideal for busy days, last-minute dinners, or when you’re simply craving something creamy and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Pasta checks all the boxes for a meal you’ll want to make on repeat.

First and foremost, it’s fast! With just 15 minutes of total cooking time, this dish fits perfectly into even the busiest of schedules.

The sauce is the ultimate comfort food. Infused with rich garlic, butter, and cream, it’s indulgent without being overwhelming – the kind of dish that warms your soul.

It’s budget-friendly. With just a handful of pantry staples like pasta, garlic, cream, and Parmesan, you can create a gourmet meal without breaking the bank.

Finally, it’s a versatile canvas. Enjoy it as-is or customize with your favorite proteins, veggies, or seasonings to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to bring it to life:

• Pasta: Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work beautifully here, but any pasta shape will do. Just aim for something that holds the creamy sauce well.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that bold, aromatic flavor. Use 4-5 cloves, finely minced, for a garlicky punch.
• Butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce. Unsalted butter is ideal so you can control the seasoning.
• Heavy Cream: The foundation of the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but it won’t be quite as indulgent.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is essential for its nutty, salty flavor. Pre-grated varieties won’t melt as smoothly.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the flavors of the sauce.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.

No special equipment is required – just a pot for boiling the pasta and a skillet for the sauce.

How To Make 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta

This recipe is as quick and easy as it is delicious. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4-5 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter.
3. Make the Sauce: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and reduce the heat to low. Let the cream simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Add the Parmesan: Whisk in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!

Storage Options

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, here’s how to store and reheat leftovers if needed:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid the microwave, as it can overcook the pasta and cause the sauce to separate.

This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream-based sauce, so it’s best to make just enough for your meal.

Variations and Substitutions

This Creamy Garlic Pasta is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
• Incorporate Veggies: Mix in sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a touch of heat.
• Use Alternative Cheeses: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a dollop of ricotta for a unique twist.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

No matter how you customize it, 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household – the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal.

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