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Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta made with buttery garlic sauce, freshly grated Parmesan, and perfectly cooked pasta. A quick, comforting dinner that feels rich, cozy, and indulgent with minimal ingredients.
Prep Time: 5 minutesCook Time: 15 minutesTotal Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course / PastaCuisine: Italian-InspiredKeyword: Garlic Parmesan PastaServings: 4 servingsCalories: ~510 kcal per serving
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz fettuccine linguine, or spaghetti
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk for lighter option
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • Optional Add-Ins
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Chopped parsley
  • Lemon zest

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
  3. Sauté Garlic
  4. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Make the Sauce
  6. Reduce heat to low and add cream. Stir gently and warm without boiling.
  7. Add Parmesan
  8. Remove skillet from heat. Slowly stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  9. Combine
  10. Add pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed for a silky texture.
  11. Season & Serve
  12. Season with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately.