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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a luscious, comforting dish featuring tender pasta bathed in a decadent garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and feels like a gourmet treat without the fuss.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Whisk in flour and cook for 30 seconds to form a roux.
  5. Gradually pour in broth and cream while whisking to remove lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
  8. Adjust seasoning to taste and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh-grated Parmesan for the smoothest, richest sauce.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with whole milk and increase the flour slightly.
  • Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, or veggies like spinach or mushrooms to make it heartier.
  • Leftovers keep for 2 days—reheat with a splash of cream or pasta water for best texture.

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