Description
Enjoy a delightful Garlic Parmesan Pasta featuring al dente noodles enveloped in a creamy garlic butter sauce, topped with freshly grated Parmesan. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, offering a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh salad.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon of salt).
- Add the spaghetti (or chosen pasta) and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside without rinsing.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
- If desired, add red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated. Add more reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes over low heat to absorb flavors.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley. Pair with garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For added protein, consider grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli.
- To lighten the dish, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
- Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance the aroma of the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes