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Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Add the heavy cream to the pan and stir, letting it simmer for a few minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Add the Parmesan
Once the cream has thickened, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Let everything come together for 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up some of the creamy goodness.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan pasta hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it’s so delicious that there may be no leftovers!
Why This Recipe Feels Like a Family Favorite
- Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and garlic creates a rich, comforting sauce that’s hard to beat. It’s the kind of flavor that makes you feel cozy and content after just one bite.
- Simple Ingredients: The beauty of this dish is that it uses only a few basic ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. There’s no need for anything fancy—just real, satisfying flavors.
- Easily Customizable: You can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas, or even grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. The versatility of this recipe allows you to make it your own.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something timeless about pasta dishes that feel like home. This creamy pasta is the perfect balance of indulgence and familiarity, making it a dish that will be passed down for generations.
Pro Tips for Extra Flavor
✔ Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme, basil, or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile of the sauce. Add them when you add the garlic for a fragrant touch.
✔ Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce while it’s simmering to add a subtle kick.
✔ Boost the Cheese: For an even cheesier dish, you can add a mix of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheese for extra flavor depth.
Conclusion
This creamy garlic Parmesan pasta is the perfect example of a recipe that’s simple, quick, and packs the kind of flavor that makes it feel like a long-time family favorite. It’s the perfect dish to whip up when you’re in a hurry but still want something that will make everyone feel like they’re getting a home-cooked meal. Next time you’re short on time but craving something satisfying, give this recipe a try—you’ll have a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal on the table in no time! 🍝✨
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