Quick and Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta

Get the creamy garlic pasta ingredients and recipe instructions below!

Craving something indulgent yet effortless? This approximately 20-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta is your answer!

With a rich, garlicky cream sauce that clings to perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that transforms simple pantry ingredients into a comforting meal in no time.

I stumbled across this recipe on a busy evening when I needed something quick yet satisfying, and it’s been a favorite ever since.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy garlic pasta has all the makings of a weeknight staple. Here’s why it stands out:

• Quick to Make: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy schedules.
• Simple Ingredients: Garlic, cream, butter, and Parmesan come together for a restaurant-quality dish using pantry staples.
• Highly Versatile: Enjoy it as-is or customize it with proteins and veggies to suit your preferences.
• Rich Yet Balanced: The creamy sauce is indulgent without feeling heavy, thanks to the bold flavor of garlic and a touch of Parmesan.

Key Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Pasta

This dish comes together with just a handful of essentials.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta: Long noodles like spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine work best for the creamy sauce. Shorter shapes like penne or rigatoni are great alternatives.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is the star of the show. Finely mince or grate it for the best flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and a smooth, velvety texture to the sauce. Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce, it creates a luxurious, creamy consistency. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts seamlessly into the sauce for a nutty, savory finish. Avoid pre-grated cheese for the best results.
• Pasta Water: The starch-rich water helps thin the sauce and bind it to the pasta.

Optional additions like parsley, red pepper flakes, or lemon zest can elevate the flavors even further.

How to Make 20-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta

This recipe is simple, quick, and delicious. Follow these steps for a flawless dish:

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.

3. Make the Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the cream simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, thickening slightly.

4. Incorporate the Parmesan

Stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until it melts and creates a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat every strand in the creamy garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta immediately and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you manage to save some for later, here’s how to keep your pasta fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store cooled pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or pasta water to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the sauce.
• Freezing: Due to the cream-based sauce, this pasta doesn’t freeze well and is best enjoyed fresh.

Variations to Try

This 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ideas to customize it:

1. Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier dish.
2. Boost Veggies: Incorporate spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
3. Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or chili oil for a touch of heat.
4. Dairy-Free Option: Swap the butter and cream with olive oil and coconut milk for a vegan-friendly version.
5. Switch Up the Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or a mix of Parmesan and Gruyere for a unique twist.

Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt, or to taste
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the sauce, using reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency as needed.
6. Garnish with parsley and additional Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Final Thoughts

This 20-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta is proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create something special.

With its silky, garlicky sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Give it a try and let me know how you customize it—whether you add your favorite protein, veggies, or a touch of spice, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!