Name: Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cups chicken broth (or more as needed); 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.5 pound spaghetti (about 225g); 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 0.75 cup heavy cream; 1.5 tablespoons dried parsley

Jump to Recipe

If you’re hunting for a quick, restaurant-quality dinner that delights both kids and adults, Creamy Garlic Pasta might just be your kitchen’s new best friend. Imagine twirling silky strands of spaghetti smothered in a velvety, garlicky cream sauce—simple, rich, and oh-so-comforting. What’s not to love? I still remember the first time I made this dish on a busy weeknight, expecting a basic pasta but ending up with something truly special. My family’s verdict? “Can we have this every week?” The beauty lies in its simplicity: just a handful of pantry staples creates a meal that feels gourmet.

This pasta is your ticket to a scrumptiously satisfying dinner without hours of prep. It’s got a similar cozy vibe as my classic Alfredo, yet with a garlicky twist that always wins rave reviews. If you enjoy easy, crowd-pleasing meals packed with flavor, Creamy Garlic Pasta should be at the very top of your must-try list!

What is Creamy Garlic Pasta?

Ever wonder how a dish gets such a mouthwatering name? Creamy Garlic Pasta spells out its intentions right from the start—this is one bowl of comfort fueled by rich creaminess and a generous hit of garlic. Why “creamy”? Because the sauce hugs every strand of spaghetti in a dreamy, cloud-like texture. Why “garlic”? Well, garlic is the aromatic star that gives this pasta its signature flavor punch—who can resist? As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—after tasting this, anyone’s heart (and tummy) will thank you! Still curious? There’s only one way to find out if the name lives up to the hype: get cooking and taste for yourself!

Why You’ll Love This

Creamy Garlic Pasta is all about that lush, buttery sauce and bold garlic flavor—it’s the epitome of comfort food done right. First off, the big highlight: this dish combines luscious cream, parmesan, and aromatic garlic for a decadent yet balanced finish, making it impossible to stop at just one bite. Creating it at home is budget-friendly compared to restaurant pasta favorites, letting you save money while enjoying a truly luxurious meal in your own kitchen. Plus, you can tailor the toppings—think fresh herbs, an extra sprinkle of cheese, or crispy bacon—for endless flavor combinations. It’s equally delightful as my Easy Weeknight Carbonara, with fewer ingredients but just as much appeal. Give Creamy Garlic Pasta a whirl and see why it’s destined to become a regular at your table!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta

Quick Overview

This Creamy Garlic Pasta comes together in about 25 minutes, making it ideal for anything from busy weeknights to cozy Sunday suppers. The beauty is in its fuss-free method: sauteed garlic, a swirl of olive oil and butter, and a silky, cheesy sauce. Expect a velvety, flavorful experience that’s super satisfying and perfect for all pasta lovers!

Ingredients

2 teaspoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons butter
3 cups chicken broth, or more as needed
0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
0.25 teaspoon salt
0.5 pound (about 225g) spaghetti
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
0.75 cup heavy cream
1.5 tablespoons dried parsley

Step-by-Step

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring continuously, until fragrant but not browned.
Stir in the butter and let it melt completely, mixing with the garlic for extra flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the spaghetti directly to the pan. Reduce heat to a low simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Add more broth if needed to keep the pasta covered and prevent sticking.
Lower the heat and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
Pour in the heavy cream and dried parsley. Toss everything together until the sauce is smooth and glossy, and the parsley is evenly distributed.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and serve immediately, topping with extra cheese or parsley if desired.

What to Serve With

Creamy Garlic Pasta is delicious on its own, but it really shines as part of a complete meal. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette to add some freshness. Garlicky sauteed green beans or roasted vegetables are perfect for extra flavor and color. For some protein, pair with grilled chicken, pan-seared shrimp, or Italian sausage. And don’t forget crusty bread—the perfect vehicle for all that creamy sauce! Round out the meal with a light white wine or sparkling water for an elegant finishing touch.

Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Garlic Pasta

Use fresh garlic, not the pre-minced jarred kind, for the brightest flavor.
For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
Stir the pasta regularly as it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even absorption of the sauce.
Don’t skimp on good Parmesan—freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a richer taste.
Add the cream at the end to prevent curdling and ensure the sauce stays smooth.
If the sauce gets too thick, splash in a little more broth or cream.
Want more veggies? Toss in a handful of spinach or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
Avoid high heat once the cream and cheese go in to keep the sauce silky, not grainy.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Have leftovers? Store Creamy Garlic Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to revive the creamy texture. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between. Freezing is possible, but the texture may become less smooth after thawing due to the dairy content. For best results, enjoy freshly made or refrigerated within a few days.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, fettuccine, linguine, or even penne work beautifully with the creamy sauce.

How can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

You can swap out the butter and cream for plant-based alternatives and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What meat or vegetables can I add to this pasta?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms make fantastic add-ins. Broccoli, spinach, or peas blend seamlessly into the creamy base.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If the sauce is too thick, just add a splash more broth or cream. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the cream and cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare in advance and reheat gently, adding extra liquid to help revive the creamy consistency.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Pasta is one of those crowd-pleasing dishes that’s as easy to make as it is to love. With its rich, garlicky sauce, minimal ingredients, and quick preparation, it’s sure to become a weeknight staple and family favorite. From busy evenings to special occasions, this pasta offers comfort, flavor, and a dash of Italian-inspired charm in every bite. Give it a try tonight—and don’t forget to explore my other pasta recipes for even more delicious dinner inspiration!