creamy pasta sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
creamy pasta sauce recipe
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The Best creamy pasta sauce recipe

I’m so excited to share this creamy pasta sauce recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires just a few ingredients. I love how the combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic creates a rich and velvety texture that coats the pasta perfectly.

My kids are always asking for seconds, and I have to admit that I’m right there with them. This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal.

And the best part is that it’s actually quite healthy, thanks to the abundance of vegetables and lean protein from the cream and cheese. I’ve made this recipe countless times, but it never fails to impress.

The key to making a great creamy pasta sauce is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook it slowly over low heat, allowing all the flavors to meld together. It’s really not that complicated, but trust me when I say that it makes all the difference in the world.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought sauces again.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Sauce

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Sauce

4.8 from 1085 votes

This rich and velvety creamy pasta sauce is made with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream. It coats pasta perfectly and comes together in under 20 minutes.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time12 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time17 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup reserved pasta water

For Serving

12 ounces fettuccine or pasta of choice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, then drain the pasta and set aside.
4While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, stirring constantly.
6Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking to combine.
7Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
8Whisk continuously over low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes.
9The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
10Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
11Toss gently with tongs, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
12The sauce should cling to the pasta and be creamy but not runny.
13Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
14The sauce will thicken as it cools, so serve right away for the best texture.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce Parmesan to 3/4 cup. Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Sauce Works

This creamy pasta sauce recipe is a staple in our household and has been for years. It’s perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal.

And the best part is that it’s actually quite healthy, thanks to the abundance of vegetables and lean protein from the cream and cheese. To store leftover sauce, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freezing for up to 2 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Sauce

Q: What type of pasta is best suited for this creamy sauce?

This sauce pairs well with any type of pasta, but I find that long, thin shapes like spaghetti or fettuccine work particularly well.

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

While you can use low-fat cream, keep in mind that it will change the flavor and texture of the sauce slightly.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add a little bit of water or broth if you find that the sauce is becoming too thick.

Q: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this sauce up to a day in advance.

Q: What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand?

You can substitute other hard cheeses like cheddar or Pecorino Romano in its place.

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