garlic cream pasta recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best garlic cream pasta recipe

I’ve been making garlic cream pasta for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that never fails to impress.

I love how the rich and creamy sauce coats the pasta, infusing it with a deep and savory flavor. My kids adore it, and it’s a great way to get them to eat more vegetables.

I often make it for family gatherings and special occasions, as it’s easy to scale up and feed a crowd. The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it to your taste by adding different herbs, spices, or protein sources.

One of the most appealing aspects of garlic cream pasta is its comfort food factor. There’s something soothing about the combination of pasta, garlic, and cream that just feels like home.

When I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed, this dish always seems to hit the spot. The technique behind making garlic cream pasta is relatively straightforward – you simply cook the pasta until al dente, then combine it with a mixture of sautéed garlic, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese.

It’s a perfect recipe for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a holiday feast.

Garlic Cream Pasta

4.8 from 1009 votes

A rich and comforting pasta dish with a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz pasta

For the Garlic Cream Sauce

2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

For Garnish

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and set aside.
4In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
5Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.
6Stir frequently to prevent burning.
7Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
8Gradually whisk in heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form.
9Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
10Stir frequently to prevent burning.
11Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
12Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
13If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little pasta water.
14Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan with the garlic cream sauce.
15Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
16If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
17Transfer the pasta to serving plates.
18Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
19Enjoy your creamy garlic pasta while it’s hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Colander
Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes. You can also add cooked vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition.

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re planning a family gathering or just need a comforting meal after a long day. One of my favorite things about garlic cream pasta is how well it stores in the fridge for up to three days or freezes beautifully for up to two months.

To reheat leftovers, simply cook them in the microwave with some additional cream until warmed through. For serving ideas, try pairing it with roasted chicken or grilled salmon for added protein.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Cream Pasta

Q: What type of pasta is best suited for garlic cream pasta?

For this recipe, I recommend using a high-quality long or short pasta shape such as spaghetti or fettuccine.

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

While low-fat cream can be used as a substitute, keep in mind that it may affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

Q: How do I prevent the garlic from overpowering the other flavors in the sauce?

To avoid an overpowering garlic flavor, make sure to cook the garlic until it’s translucent and slightly caramelized.

Q: Can I add other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to the sauce?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables to create a colorful and nutritious meal.

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

You can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.

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