Here’s a simple, delicious recipe for creamy garlic pasta that’s rich, comforting, and perfect for a weeknight dinner:
Ingredients (serves 2–3)
- 200g (7 oz) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. - Make the garlic sauce:
- Heat butter and olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1–2 minutes), being careful not to burn it.
- Add cream:
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cheese and season:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
- Combine pasta and sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
💡 Tips for extra flavor:
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken for a fuller meal.
- A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the creaminess.
If you want, I can give you a 5-minute quick version that’s ultra-creamy and requires almost no cleanup. Do you want me to do that?
