pasta with cream sauce recipe

pasta with cream sauce recipe

The Best pasta with cream sauce recipe

Pasta with cream sauce is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It originated in Italy, where it was known as ‘pasta al burro.’ The name translates to ‘butter pasta,’ which gives you an idea of the rich and creamy sauce that is typically used.

Over time, the recipe has been adapted and modified to suit different tastes and preferences, but the core ingredients remain the same. The dish is made by cooking pasta according to package instructions, then tossing it with a mixture of heavy cream, butter, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. This creates a smooth and velvety sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.

One of the things I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Simply cook the pasta, mix together the sauce ingredients, and combine them. You can’t get much simpler than that!

My family loves this dish because it’s comforting and familiar. We often make it on busy weeknights when we need a quick and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a great way to get some veggies into our diet – just add some steamed broccoli or other vegetables on the side.

I’ve also found that this recipe works well for family gatherings or special occasions. It’s impressive enough to serve to guests, but still easy enough to make in large quantities. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good cream sauce?!

It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser in our house.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

4.7 from 656 votes

A rich and comforting pasta dish featuring a velvety cream sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese. This quick recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz (340g) fettuccine or linguine
1 tbsp salt for pasta water

For the Cream Sauce

2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/8 tsp nutmeg (optional)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the fettuccine, then cook according to package directions until al dente, typically about 8 to 10 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander.
4While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
6Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking gently to combine.
7Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while whisking continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes.
8Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using, then stir well.
9The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
10Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce and toss gently with tongs until every strand is evenly coated.
11If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
12Simmer on low heat for 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld.
13Remove the skillet from the heat and let the pasta rest for 1 minute.
14Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot for pasta
Large skillet or saucepan
Colander
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cheese grater

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 17g❤️Cholesterol: 90mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 16g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce Parmesan to 3/4 cup. To add vegetables, stir in 1 cup of steamed broccoli or peas along with the pasta. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Works

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you are ready to reheat, put the pasta in a skillet over low heat and add a tablespoon of milk or cream.

Stir gently until it is hot, and the sauce will become smooth again. Avoid high heat because it can cause the cream to separate. This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is easy to double for a crowd and everyone loves it.

It works well for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a quiet dinner at home. I often serve it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to round out the meal. It is one of those dishes that feels special but does not require much effort, and that is why it stays in my regular rotation.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Q: What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

A: You can use any type of pasta you like best for this recipe. Some people prefer long, thin noodles like fettuccine or spaghetti, while others like shorter shapes like penne or macaroni.

Q: Can I use low-fat cream instead of heavy cream?

A: While you can use low-fat cream as a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe, keep in mind that it will affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Heavy cream provides richness and depth to the sauce.

Q: How long does it take to cook the pasta?

A: The cooking time will depend on the type of pasta you’re using and whether you’re cooking it al dente or until it’s very tender.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to customize this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to give this dish your own unique flavor.

Q: How do I store leftover pasta with cream sauce?

A: Store leftover pasta with cream sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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