Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a rich and comforting Italian-American dish featuring al dente fettuccine coated in a silky garlic-infused cream sauce with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy-to-make meal is perfect as a satisfying main course or as a delicious side alongside grilled chicken or shrimp.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine
Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or linguine until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce later.
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Cream and Simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to heat through for a couple of minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Incorporate Parmesan and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes over the pasta before serving hot.
Notes
- For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
