There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy garlic butter pasta. Its velvety sauce lightly clings to every morsel, enriching your palate with an indulgent blend of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or indulging in a solo comfort meal, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction with each bite.
Ingredients
- 300g of your preferred pasta
- 4 tbsp of unsalted butter
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipments
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Serving spoons
- Colander
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin your culinary journey by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for a perfect al dente texture. Once done, reserve a cup of the cooking water, then drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside, keeping it warm.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Base
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it gently until it releases its fragrant aroma, which should take about a minute. Be cautious not to let the garlic burn, as it can quickly turn bitter.
Step 3: Mix in the Cream
Slowly pour the heavy cream into the garlic butter, stirring comfortably as it warms. Allow it to simmer gently, and watch as it starts to thicken into a lush sauce. It’s important not to boil the cream to maintain a silky texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Cheese and Season
Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously to ensure it melts evenly into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, and add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Return the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it through the creamy sauce. Ensure each strand is luxuriously coated, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley to add a splash of color and freshness. Serve it immediately for optimal taste. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a side of garlic bread for a more indulgent meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For optimal results, use fresh garlic and quality Parmesan. If you desire a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the garlic. Adjust the creaminess by incorporating more reserved pasta water.
Power-Packed Protein Edition: Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
Looking to give your pasta a protein boost? Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp into the mix. Toss these proteins with the pasta during the last steps for an enriching meal that satisfies both taste and nutrition.
Low-Carb Fantasy: Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
If you’re cutting down on carbs, make this dish by substituting traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. This alternative keeps the creamy delight intact while catering to your dietary preferences.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or water to restore its smooth consistency.
FAQs
- Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? Yes, you can, but the sauce will be less creamy.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians? Absolutely, just ensure your Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.
- How can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta substitutes freely available at stores.
- What other cheeses can I use? Goat cheese or Pecorino Romano can offer interesting flavor alternatives.
- Can I add vegetables? Certainly, adding spinach or peas introduces nutrients and color.
Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- pasta
- unsalted butter
- garlic
- heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper
- parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Begin by cooking the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve a cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in the cream and simmer until slightly thickened. Avoid bringing it to a boil.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.