Pasta · Easy
15-Minute Garlic Parmesan Pasta
When you need one of those fast, no-fuss easy pasta recipes, this garlic parmesan pasta comes together with pantry staples in about 15 minutes flat. It's silky, cheesy, and endlessly adaptable with whatever protein or veggies you have on hand.
What you'll need
- 12 ozspaghetti or linguine
- 4 tablespoonsbutter
- 5 clovesgarlic, minced
- 1/2 cupheavy cream
- 1 cupgrated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cupreserved pasta water
- to tastesalt and black pepper
- 2 tablespoonsfresh parsley, chopped
Let's cook
- 1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- 2While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 3Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 2 minutes.
- 4Reduce heat to low and whisk in the Parmesan cheese a little at a time until melted and smooth.
- 5Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat, adding splashes of reserved pasta water until the sauce clings nicely.
- 6Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Make it yours
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Stir in sauteed mushrooms or spinach for more vegetables.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Good with
- A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread
- Steamed green beans
Frequently asked questions
Good questions, answered.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It's best fresh since the sauce can thicken as it sits, but you can reheat leftovers gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne, fettuccine, or fusilli all work well with this creamy garlic parmesan sauce.
Keep cooking
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