Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta – Ready in 20 Minutes

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine (or your favorite pasta)

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Cream it Up:

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, then slowly add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy.

4. Season:

Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

5. Combine:

Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

6. Serve:

Garnish with chopped parsley and a bit more Parmesan. Serve hot!

Tips & Variations

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon take this dish to the next level.

• Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

• Go Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Done in 20 minutes with minimal cleanup.

• Comforting: Ultra-creamy and cheesy, perfect for cozy nights.

• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love it!

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a foolproof, cozy, and ultra-satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a quick comfort food fix. Whether you’re cooking for the family or just yourself, this one-pot wonder is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.