Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Name: Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Favorites

I love whipping up this Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta because it’s the kind of meal that comes together in no time. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a deliciously creamy dish that satisfies my cravings. The rich garlic flavor paired with the nuttiness of Parmesan always leaves me wanting more. Plus, it's versatile enough for a cozy night in or impressing guests at dinner parties. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this pasta recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:09:35.808Z

When I first tried this Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it was. I remember experimenting with the ingredients in my pantry, and the result was a creamy sauce that clung perfectly to the pasta. Using fresh garlic and quality Parmesan cheese really elevates the dish, making it feel gourmet!

One tip I've learned over time is to reserve some pasta water before draining. It helps the sauce come together beautifully, creating that luscious mouthfeel that I crave. Trust me, this little trick makes all the difference and results in pasta that's utterly irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor that makes every bite delightful
Creamy texture that perfectly coats the pasta
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

The Importance of Garlic

Garlic is the star of this Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, providing a robust flavor that elevates the dish. When sautéing the minced garlic, aim for it to become translucent and fragrant, which typically takes about a minute over medium heat. Be wary of burning it, as burnt garlic can introduce a bitter taste that detracts from the overall dish. I recommend using fresh garlic over pre-minced for the best flavor profile.

Additionally, the amount of garlic can be adjusted according to personal preference. If you love a more pronounced garlic flavor, consider adding another clove or two. On the other hand, if you're looking for something milder, reducing the amount slightly can still yield a delicious cream sauce.

Cream and Cheese Blend

The heavy cream is essential for achieving the rich, creamy texture that makes this pasta dish so satisfying. When you pour the cream into the pot, let it come to a gentle simmer before adding the Parmesan. This step helps the cheese melt smoothly, creating a cohesive sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add reserved pasta water in small increments; this will help achieve your desired consistency without diluting the flavor.

Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a game-changer here. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents which can prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce. Aim for a fine grate to ensure it integrates seamlessly, creating that irresistible creaminess that coats each strand of pasta.

Customizing Your Pasta

This recipe is easily customizable based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less decadent. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative — the flavors will differ slightly but can still be delicious.

You can also enhance your garlic Parmesan pasta by adding vegetables, such as sautéed spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes. Adding these not only boosts nutrition but also introduces a variety of textures and flavors, making the dish more exciting. If you want a protein boost, consider grilling chicken or shrimp to serve alongside or mixed in.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your garlic Parmesan pasta:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Once you have everything, you're ready to create this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Make the Garlic Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Combine Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Toss in Pasta

Add the drained pasta to the sauce, mixing well to coat the noodles. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

And that's it! Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce while it's simmering.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be done on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir gently to avoid breaking the pasta. Microwaving is also an option; use a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. Allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as suggested. While the pasta may lose some texture after freezing, the flavor will remain intact.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the dining experience, serve this pasta with a fresh side salad and crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can also add an exciting kick if you enjoy some heat. Pair it with a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which complements the richness beautifully.

For a touch of sophistication, consider garnishing your dish with additional freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving. Doing this adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that enhances the overall presentation and flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce appears too thin, remember you can increase the heat slightly to encourage reduction, stirring continuously. However, do this cautiously to avoid scorching. If it's too thick, as mentioned, gradually incorporate the reserved pasta water until just right. You want the sauce to be glossy and cling deliciously to the pasta.

Another common issue is clumping cheese. To avoid this, ensure that you've reduced the heat sufficiently when adding the Parmesan to prevent it from seizing up. Stir continuously until melted. If you encounter clumps, you can use an immersion blender to smooth the sauce, but take care not to overblend.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-dairy substitutes?

Yes, you can use almond milk or coconut cream in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

→ How can I add protein to this dish?

You can easily add grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like spinach and broccoli to enhance the dish.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Besides Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great alternatives that can add a different flavor profile.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.