Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta: A Comforting Delight

Garlic parmesan pasta is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm, comforting embrace. Just imagine twirling strands of perfectly cooked pasta, glistening with a luscious garlic-infused sauce that dances with the nutty aroma of parmesan. The moment you take that first bite, your taste buds sing in harmony, celebrating the delightful flavors that linger long after the last forkful.

Every time I whip up this garlic parmesan pasta, I’m transported to my childhood kitchen where my mom would make it for family gatherings. The smell of garlic sizzling in butter would waft through the house, drawing everyone to the table like moths to a flame. This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia on a plate, perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing friends at dinner parties.

There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table and sharing this dish with loved ones, leaving them asking for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use your favorite type—spaghetti or fettuccine works well—but avoid anything too small that gets lost in sauce.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; fresh garlic elevates the dish beyond store-bought options.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate your cheese fresh for a richer taste; pre-grated varieties lack the same depth.

• Butter: Go for unsalted butter to control salt levels; it adds creaminess without overpowering other flavors.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor; it complements garlic beautifully.

• Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a burst of freshness to each bite.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to personal taste preferences for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté Garlic in Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter along with olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes—being careful not to burn it.

Add Parmesan and Pasta Water: Stir in grated parmesan cheese along with some reserved pasta water until it forms a creamy sauce. You want this mixture smooth and velvety!

Toss in Cooked Pasta: Add your drained pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together until each strand is coated with that creamy goodness—you might want to dance a little here!

Season and Garnish: Season generously with salt and pepper, then sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for brightness. Give one final toss before serving so everyone gets a taste.

This garlic parmesan pasta comes together so quickly that it’s perfect for those days when time is short but flavor can’t be compromised! Enjoy every cheesy bite while imagining all the wonderful memories you’ll create around this dish.

Now go ahead and dig into this flavorful experience—it’s more than just dinner; it’s an explosion of happiness on your plate!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta while you sauté garlic in butter. This multitasking ensures everything is hot and ready to combine perfectly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the parmesan for pecorino or add veggies like spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water to restore creaminess.

Sometimes I whip up garlic parmesan pasta when I’m feeling nostalgic about family dinners, where laughter and delicious smells filled the air.

FAQ

What can I substitute for garlic in garlic parmesan pasta?

You can use shallots or onion powder for a milder flavor without sacrificing taste.

Can I make garlic parmesan pasta vegan?

Yes! Substitute nutritional yeast for parmesan and use vegan butter or olive oil instead.

How do I prevent my sauce from being too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Garlic Parmesan Pasta

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Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a heartwarming dish that combines al dente pasta with a rich garlic-infused sauce and nutty parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe is quick to make and always satisfies. With its creamy texture and customizable options, this pasta dish is sure to become a family favorite, inviting everyone to the table for seconds.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil together. Add minced garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in grated parmesan and reserved pasta water until smooth and creamy.
4. Toss cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring each strand is well-coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (200g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 40mg