Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for garlic and cheese lovers. With its rich, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and the savory combination of garlic and Parmesan, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something indulgent for a special meal, this creamy pasta will become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free cream for a lighter version)

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

• Salt to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta:

Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water generously before adding the pasta for extra flavor. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let the cream warm up, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with black pepper, salt, and optional dried basil to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Garnish and Serve: Once the pasta is well-coated in the sauce, transfer it to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Why This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Works:

• Creamy Sauce: The heavy cream and Parmesan create a velvety sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, making each bite rich and satisfying.

• Garlic: Adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the richness of the cream and cheese.

• Parmesan: The saltiness and umami of Parmesan cheese elevate the dish and add complexity to the sauce.

• Customizable: This pasta is perfect on its own, but you can add sautéed vegetables, grilled chicken, or shrimp to make it even heartier.