Pasta lovers rejoice! Our Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta is a delectable dish that perfectly blends simplicity with indulgence. Each twirl of pasta glides in your mouth, imbued with the richness of garlic and butter — a symphony of flavors that brings warmth and satisfaction. Suitable for any occasion, this recipe is quick enough for a weeknight meal yet special enough to serve at gatherings.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine recommended)
- 50g unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 100ml heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Equipments
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Colander
- Cooking spoon
- Chopping board
- Knife
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside 100ml of the pasta water to use later if needed. This water contains starch and will help in making the sauce silkier.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the pasta is cooking, take your saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. As it melts, add the minced garlic. Stir constantly to prevent burning and cook until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden, about 2-3 minutes. This releases an aromatic essence that forms the base of our sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Turn the heat down and slowly add the cream to the saucepan, stirring it into the garlic butter mix. Allow the cream to blend with the butter and garlic, creating a velvety texture. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Continue to stir gently for about 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta into the creamy garlic butter sauce. Toss it to ensure the spaghetti is evenly coated with the rich sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved. This step ensures each strand of pasta absorbs the full flavor profile.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully incorporated. The cheese adds a delicious depth to the flavor. Finally, garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
To serve this creamy delight, scoop a portion into a bowl or plate, ensuring the pasta is generously coated in sauce. For that extra touch, sprinkle a little more Parmesan on top, and maybe a grind of fresh black pepper. Pair this dish with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
– Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Grating your own cheese results in a smoother sauce.
– Don’t skip the reserved pasta water – it’s a great trick to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
– For added texture and protein, feel free to include chicken or shrimp.
Power-Packed Protein: High-Protein Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
Looking to boost the protein content of this delicious dish? Why not add some grilled chicken breast or sautéed shrimp? These additions not only bring protein to your plate but also make the meal heartier, perfect for after a workout or a busy day.
Simply cube the chicken or shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook them through. Mix with the pasta during the final step or serve on top as a stunning centerpiece that blends perfectly with the garlic butter flavor!
Going Low-Carb: Creamy Garlic Butter Zoodles
For those on a low-carb diet but still crave the rich flavors of creamy pasta dishes, zucchini noodles, or ‘zoodles,’ are an ideal substitute. This version allows you to enjoy the same garlic butter indulgence without an overload of carbs typically found in pasta.
Zoodles absorb the creamy garlic sauce beautifully. Cook them briefly, so they remain slightly crunchy, adding a fresh twist to the dish. It’s a lighter option that still satisfies a heartwarming, comforting taste.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on a stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s silkiness. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the sauce might change upon thawing.
FAQs
- Can I substitute regular cream for a lighter version?
You absolutely can. However, note that using lighter cream may alter the sauce’s thickness and mouthfeel slightly. - What type of pasta pairs best with this recipe?
Spaghetti and fettuccine are classics, but any pasta shape you love works well. - Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Sure! Substitute plant-based butter and cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan option. - Can additional herbs be added for flavor?
Certainly! Basil and oregano both work well and complement the garlic’s robustness. - How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Keep a close watch and stir constantly. Lower the heat as needed to maintain the garlic’s color just turning lightly golden.
Join the Conversation: Let’s Talk Pasta!
Wasn’t that straightforward? Now it’s your turn to try out our Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta recipe. We hope it brings flavor to your nights and becomes a regular part of your meal rotation. Join the conversation by commenting below! We’d love to see your creations – don’t forget to share them and tag us on social media. Bon Appétit!
Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- pasta
- unsalted butter
- garlic
- heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
- Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 100ml of pasta water.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer until combined.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved water to adjust consistency.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley before serving.