This creamy garlic pasta is rich, simple, and perfect when you need dinner fast.
Recipe at a Glance
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Estimated cost per serving: $1.80
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Pour in cream and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Add pasta and toss until glossy, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Finish with parsley.
Helpful Tips
Grate Parmesan finely so it melts smoothly. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer rather than a hard boil.
Storage
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Whole milk can work, but the sauce will be thinner.
What pasta shape works best?
Spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni all work.