Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and simple meal that doesn’t sacrifice on flavor. With the creamy sauce enriched by Parmesan cheese and butter, it’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, this pasta checks all the boxes. The garlic adds a fragrant depth while the Parmesan brings a nice balance of sharpness to the creamy sauce. Plus, it’s so versatile—you can add grilled chicken, vegetables, or even shrimp for extra flavor and texture.

Ingredients

2 teaspoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons butter
3 cups chicken broth, or more as needed
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
½ pound spaghetti
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup heavy cream
1 ½ tablespoons dried parsley

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Add the butter to the skillet and allow it to melt into the garlic, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Pour in the chicken broth, adding more if necessary to cover the pasta when cooking. Season with ground black pepper and salt. Bring the broth to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add the spaghetti to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the broth has reduced to a creamy consistency. This should take about 10-12 minutes.
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Continue to stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Sprinkle the dried parsley on top and give the pasta one final stir to mix everything evenly.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creamy garlic pasta!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-3
Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, for added flavor and texture.
Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken broth and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic when sautéing for a spicy twist.
Herb variation: Fresh parsley or basil can be used in place of dried parsley to enhance the freshness of the dish.
Vegan option: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover creamy garlic pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, but be sure to stir every 30 seconds to ensure even reheating.

FAQs

Can I make creamy garlic pasta ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. When reheating, add a bit of extra cream or broth to restore the creamy texture.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like—penne, fettuccine, or linguine would all work well.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth, or even water if you’re in a pinch, although the flavor will be less rich.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To make the sauce thicker, cook it for a few extra minutes after adding the cheese and cream, allowing it to reduce further. You can also add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken the sauce.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic?

Yes, fresh garlic works great! Just mince it finely, and it will add a stronger, more fragrant flavor.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even a bit of hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.

Can I use heavy whipping cream instead of regular heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy whipping cream for regular heavy cream. The difference is minimal, and either will create a rich, creamy sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This specific recipe is not gluten-free due to the use of regular spaghetti. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Can I freeze leftover creamy garlic pasta?

Freezing this dish is not ideal, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed. However, you can freeze just the sauce separately and reheat with fresh pasta.

Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted tomatoes to the pasta for extra nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Pasta is a fantastic dish that’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the perfect comfort food that can be customized in numerous ways, depending on what ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet meal at home or serving it at a dinner gathering, this pasta will surely become a favorite in your recipe rotation.