How to Make Creamy Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan

Creamy pasta dishes like this one are a beloved comfort food that everyone loves. Creamy Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan is not only easy to prepare but also offers a rich, savory flavor profile that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish or even the main course. In this recipe, you'll learn how to create a creamy sauce that will complement any type of pasta perfectly. The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes and it yields four servings.

Ingredients needed:

• 1 pound (450g) of your favorite pasta shape
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and add salt, then bring it to a boil. Once the water is at a rolling boil, gently add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (this should take about 8-10 minutes for most types of pasta).
2. Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat up olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped garlic cloves and sauté until they turn golden brown but not burnt. Be careful when cooking as you don’t want your garlic to burn.
3. Combine Cream and Cheese: When the pasta is almost done cooking, pour in the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic, stirring continuously until it thickens slightly. Then add half of the Parmesan cheese, stirring gently so that everything blends together smoothly. Continue cooking for about two minutes to ensure all flavors meld nicely.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once your pasta is ready, drain off excess water using a colander. Return the drained pasta into the pot and pour in the creamy garlic sauce from the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Serve with Cheese Sprinkle: Add remaining Parmesan cheese on top of each serving before garnishing with some fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your meal!

The creaminess in this dish is achieved through the simple combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. This sauce can be served over almost any type of pasta; however, if you're looking for something a bit different or want to add some extra texture to your dish, consider adding some fresh spinach leaves during the last two minutes of cooking time. It adds a burst of flavor and color while enhancing the overall taste experience.

Creamy Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan is perfect as part of a larger meal but can also be served on its own for an elegant first course or side dish. For those who prefer vegetarian options, this recipe uses only pantry staples such as olive oil, garlic, cream, and cheese, which makes it accessible even when you're short on ingredients.

When making this dish, remember that timing is key. The pasta needs to be cooked al dente but not overcooked; otherwise, the sauce might become watery instead of creamy. Also, ensure your garlic doesn't burn; once it turns golden brown, take care not to let it darken any further as this will alter its flavor.

For added excitement or variety, try experimenting with different types of pasta shapes such as fusilli or penne. Alternatively, you could add some shrimp, chicken pieces, or even sautéed vegetables like zucchini for a more substantial meal. This versatile dish allows for endless possibilities depending on your taste preferences and what ingredients are available to you.

Creamy Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan is not only delicious but also relatively simple to prepare. It’s the perfect go-to recipe when you want something quick yet satisfying, whether it's a weeknight dinner or part of a special occasion menu. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it suitable for both casual dining at home and more formal occasions.

By following these straightforward steps, anyone can recreate this classic Italian dish in their kitchens. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or paired with a salad for a complete meal, Creamy Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan offers a delightful culinary experience that everyone will enjoy.