Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a comforting, quick-to-make dinner that feels restaurant-worthy, you’ll absolutely fall for this Creamy Garlic Pasta. It’s gloriously rich, packed with fragrant garlic, and silky parmesan sauce—all ready in a flash, making weeknight magic a reality!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s so lovely about Creamy Garlic Pasta is that you likely have every ingredient on hand already. Each one plays an important role: from creating the satiny sauce to adding subtle flavor pops that make this dish extra special.

• Pasta (8 ounces, such as linguine): This is the foundation—choose your favorite noodle shape, but I love how linguine hugs the sauce!
• Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and gives the sauce a glossy finish.
• Flour (1 teaspoon): Just a touch to build the velvety roux base—no gritty or floury taste, promise.
• Garlic (2–3 cloves, minced): The star of the show—fragrant, bold, and dreamy when gently cooked.
• Chicken Broth (1/4 cup): Lends savory depth and balances the richness. Veggie broth is a great sub for vegetarians!
• Heavy or Whipping Cream (1 cup): The key to that creamy, indulgent texture that makes every bite swoon-worthy.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/3 cup): For robust flavor and extra creamy body—use the good stuff, and grate it yourself if you can!
• Salt & Pepper: To balance and enhance those luscious flavors.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): For a pop of color and a little herby brightness at the end.

Variations

Creamy Garlic Pasta is a blank canvas, ready to become uniquely yours! Feel free to experiment—add protein, veggies, or swap ingredients based on what’s in your kitchen or your dietary needs.

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra heartiness.
• Go Vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and toss in spinach, peas, or roasted veggies.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic for a gentle kick.
• Lighter Version: Swap in half-and-half or light cream for a less decadent, but still creamy, effect.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a well-salted pot of water to a boil. Drop in your chosen pasta—linguine is my favorite for this creamy sauce—and cook it until it’s just al dente. Reserve a little pasta water before draining; it’s a secret weapon for adjusting the sauce later.

Step 2: Make a Buttery Roux

While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for about 2 minutes. This step cooks out the flour taste while laying a lush, silky base for our Creamy Garlic Pasta sauce.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Broth

Stir in the minced garlic and chicken broth. Let everything simmer gently for about a minute—the aroma is incredible and sets the stage for all that garlicky goodness to shine through.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Whisk in the heavy cream and let the sauce bubble away and thicken, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for a consistency that will hug your pasta—not too runny, not too thick.

Step 5: Add Cheese & Combine

Turn the heat to low and stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the drained pasta with your dreamy sauce—add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for extra silkiness. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and more parmesan if you’re feeling fancy!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Pasta

Garnishes

A shower of freshly grated parmesan takes Creamy Garlic Pasta over the top, with chopped parsley for bright color and a splash of freshness. Try a pinch of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil to really make the flavors sing!

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply, or alongside roasted veggies like asparagus and cherry tomatoes. For a heartier touch, garlic bread or buttery rolls will help you sop up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, twirl the Creamy Garlic Pasta into neat nests on each plate and top with extra cheese and a little lemon zest. Or serve family-style in a big bowl for everyone to dig in—don’t forget the extra napkins for all the happy, creamy smiles!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Creamy Garlic Pasta to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the sauce may thicken as it chills.

Freezing

While you can freeze leftovers, creamy sauces sometimes separate after thawing. If needed, freeze the pasta in single portions and reheat gently, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s silkiness.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Creamy Garlic Pasta slowly on the stove, adding a bit of extra cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too—just use short bursts and stir often for the creamiest result.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you treat yourself to this Creamy Garlic Pasta soon—it’s the kind of dish that turns even the ordinary into something memorable. Gather your favorite people, twirl up a forkful, and savor every delicious, garlicky, creamy bite!

Print