Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a comforting dish that envelops your senses with its rich flavors and enticing aroma. Picture twirling silky pasta around your fork, each bite infused with the unmistakable zing of garlic and the nutty warmth of parmesan cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those cozy evenings when you just want to melt into your couch.
This dish isn’t just about taste; it carries memories too. I recall making Garlic Parmesan Pasta for my friends on a rainy Sunday afternoon, and their delighted faces as they took their first bites will forever be etched in my memory. It’s an ideal meal for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner that feels special without demanding too much effort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Parmesan Pasta is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its flavor profile balances savory garlic and creamy parmesan beautifully
- The visual appeal of the glistening pasta topped with fresh herbs is sure to impress anyone at your table
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or main course, it pairs well with grilled chicken or vegetables
I remember one time I served this at a dinner party, and my friends kept asking for seconds (and thirds!). It was a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Fettuccine or spaghetti works best; choose your favorite for the perfect texture.
Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves for the best flavor; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for maximum creaminess; pre-grated doesn’t hold a candle to the real deal.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness; use high-quality butter for the best taste.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good olive oil enhances all the flavors; look for extra virgin if possible.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness; it’s like confetti on your pasta!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s flavor; don’t forget to season generously!
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, stirring occasionally.
Sauté the Garlic: In a separate skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low after removing from direct heat. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy, creating a lovely sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Toss Everything Together: Drain pasta but reserve some cooking water. Combine hot pasta with garlic-parmesan sauce in the skillet, adding reserved water as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
Season It Up!: Season with salt and pepper to taste, toss in chopped parsley for freshness, and give everything a good mix until evenly coated.
Serve Hot!: Transfer onto plates and garnish with extra parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy immediately while it’s still hot and creamy!
And there you have it—your very own bowl of Garlic Parmesan Pasta! Just like that rainy Sunday afternoon filled with laughter, this dish will surely bring joy to your table. Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Garlic parmesan pasta is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor
- Perfect for busy weeknights, the aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in
- This recipe offers a creamy texture with a savory punch, ideal for both family dinners and cozy date nights
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling pasta until al dente, then sauté garlic in butter, adding cream and cheese to create a rich, velvety sauce. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce for uniform coating, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to jazz it up with sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can also swap in different cheeses such as feta or mozzarella for a unique twist on this classic garlic parmesan pasta.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream to regain its creamy consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect garlic parmesan pasta, use freshly grated cheese for better flavor and meltability
- Avoid overcooking pasta by timing it with the sauce preparation closely
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed
Sharing this dish at my last dinner party was a hit! Everyone raved about how creamy and flavorful it was; even my picky cousin asked for seconds.
FAQ
Can I make garlic parmesan pasta without cream?
Yes, try using a combination of chicken broth and milk for a lighter version.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while boiling, and toss it in olive oil after draining.
What protein can I add to garlic parmesan pasta?
Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp makes great additions to enhance this dish’s heartiness.
Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Garlic Parmesan Pasta, a dish that combines silky pasta, savory garlic, and rich parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a cozy meal that warms the heart. With its creamy sauce and fresh parsley garnish, it’s an irresistible dish that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
- 2. Sauté garlic: In a skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- 3. Make the sauce: Reduce heat to low; stir in grated parmesan until melted and creamy.
- 4. Combine: Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water. Toss hot pasta with the garlic-parmesan sauce in the skillet, adding reserved water for creaminess.
- 5. Season: Add salt, pepper, and chopped parsley; mix well.
- 6. Serve hot: Plate and garnish with extra parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
