Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta on a plate

Pasta · Easy

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This creamy garlic parmesan pasta is coated in a rich, cheesy cream sauce infused with garlic, ready to serve in about 20 minutes.

5Prep min
15Cook min
20Total min
  • 12 ozpenne or fettuccine
  • 3 tablespoonsbutter
  • 4 clovesgarlic, minced
  • 1.5 cupsheavy cream
  • 1 cupgrated parmesan cheese
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • for garnish chopped parsley
  1. 1Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
  2. 2Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. 3Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for 3-4 minutes.
  4. 4Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth, adding pasta water as needed to loosen.
  5. 5Toss the pasta in the sauce, season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Make it yours

  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
  • Stir in sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

Good with

  • A simple side salad
  • Garlic bread
  • Steamed broccoli

Good questions, answered.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Keep the heat at a gentle simmer rather than a hard boil once the cream and cheese are added.

Can I make this ahead?

Cream sauces are best fresh, but leftovers reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen them.