There are few things in life more comforting than a bowl of creamy garlic butter pasta. This classic dish combines the rich and buttery flavor of garlic with a smooth and luxurious sauce. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy dinner date at home. Using simple ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. Let’s dive into how you can make this savory meal that’s sure to impress your taste buds!
Ingredients
- 8 oz of pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipments
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Cheese grater
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside. Make sure to reserve a cup of pasta water; this will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic as it can become bitter. Stir often to ensure the garlic cooks evenly and infuses its flavor into the butter.
Step 3: Add the Cream
Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine it with the garlic butter. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help thicken the cream slightly and intensify the flavors.
Step 4: Mix in the Parmesan
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta gently using tongs to ensure each strand is coated with the creamy garlic butter sauce. Let everything heat through for about 2 minutes.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
Once you’ve combined the pasta and sauce, it’s time to serve up your delicious creation. Plate the pasta in a shallow bowl or on a flat plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and enhance the flavors. Pair this dish with a side of crusty garlic bread and a light green salad for a complete meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For even more flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat. You can also incorporate cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and texture. Finally, using freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded can make a significant difference in the taste and consistency of the sauce.
Packed with Protein: Make It a High-Protein Dish!
If you’re looking to boost the protein content of this creamy pasta dish, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. These pair beautifully with the creamy garlic butter sauce and provide extra satiation. Simply season your protein of choice with a little garlic powder, salt, and pepper before cooking, then mix into the pasta and sauce before serving.
You may also want to explore plant-based proteins such as tofu or chickpeas. Lightly crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas can be tossed into the pasta to add a hearty, protein-packed twist to this comforting meal, keeping it both nutritious and satisfying.
Low Carb Variation: Savor Without the Guilt!
Want to indulge in creamy garlic butter pasta while keeping those carbs in check? Swap out the traditional pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Toss these low-carb alternatives into the garlic butter sauce, ensuring they’re fully coated and absorb the delicious flavors.
Another low-carb option is shirataki noodles or konjac noodles, which have a similar texture to pasta but with substantially fewer carbohydrates. This variation allows you to savor the creamy delight without straying from a low-carb lifestyle.
Storage Instructions
Any leftover creamy garlic butter pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to do so over low heat on the stove to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may not retain its texture upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? Yes, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese? Aged pecorino or Grana Padano can work as alternatives.
Is there a vegan version of this dish? Replace the butter with vegan butter and use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of dairy products.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning? Cook on medium-low heat and stir continuously until fragrant.
Can I make this pasta in advance? Yes, but for the best flavor, prepare the sauce fresh when reheating.
All About the Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta: Final Thoughts
This creamy garlic butter pasta recipe is a testament to the notion that simple is often better. With a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that’s bound to become a favorite. Remember, the joy of cooking lies in experimenting and making the recipe your own. Try adding your unique twist, then let us know by commenting below! Don’t forget to share this delightful recipe with friends and family so they too can enjoy a bowl of creamy goodness.
Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- pasta
- unsalted butter
- garlic
- heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, ensuring garlic doesn't brown.
- Lower heat to medium-low, pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add grated Parmesan into the sauce, stirring constantly until melted to form a smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently until fully coated.