Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Pasta is a simple, rich, and comforting dish packed with bold garlic flavor and velvety smooth sauce. Made with pantry staples, this one-pot meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy side dish. It’s quick, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for garlic lovers and pasta fans alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)butterolive oilgarlic cloves (minced)heavy cream or half-and-halfParmesan cheese (freshly grated)saltblack pepperparsley (for garnish)

directions

Cook pasta according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring often.

Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for protein.

Use plant-based cream and cheese for a dairy-free version.

Stir in baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for color and flavor.

Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be lighter and thinner. Whole milk works best.

Is fresh Parmesan necessary?

Freshly grated melts better and gives a smoother texture, but pre-grated can be used.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Do I need to use both butter and olive oil?

The combo adds depth, but you can use just one if preferred.

Is this vegetarian?

Yes, as long as the Parmesan used is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make it ahead?

It’s best fresh, but leftovers reheat well with a splash of cream.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just adjust the pan size and cooking time slightly.

How do I keep the garlic from burning?

Cook it on medium-low heat and stir frequently—burnt garlic tastes bitter.

What pasta works best?

Long noodles like fettuccine or linguine hold the sauce well, but any shape works.

Can I add lemon?

Yes, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and luxurious dish that’s full of flavor and silky richness. With a short ingredient list and minimal prep, it’s the perfect meal to whip up anytime you want comfort food without the fuss. Customize it your way and enjoy garlic-forward deliciousness in every bite.