15 Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

There's something magical about a creamy garlic pasta that comes together in just 15 minutes. It's the perfect solution for those nights when you're craving comfort but short on time. The combination of silky pasta, rich garlic-infused sauce, and a touch of Parmesan will make this dish an instant favorite.

I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with pantry staples on a busy weeknight. The simplicity of the ingredients and the speed of preparation make it a go-to meal that never disappoints. Let's dive in and see why this creamy garlic pasta is destined to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You'll Love This 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta

Get ready to embrace a pasta dish that's as quick as it is indulgent. This creamy garlic pasta is a lifesaver for hectic evenings and lazy weekends alike.

First, it’s incredibly fast. From start to finish, you’ll have a piping hot plate of pasta ready to serve in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re feeding yourself or a family, this recipe is a time-saver you’ll rely on again and again.

Second, the ingredient list is delightfully simple. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-quality dish. No special trips to the store are needed, making this recipe a budget-friendly option.

The creamy garlic sauce is the star of the show. It’s rich without being heavy, and the garlic flavor shines through beautifully. Perfect for pairing with a crisp side salad or a slice of garlic bread.

Lastly, it’s customizable. Add chicken, shrimp, or your favorite vegetables to make it your own. The base recipe is versatile, making it suitable for any dietary preferences or picky eaters.

Once you try it, this recipe will become a beloved addition to your repertoire, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this creamy garlic pasta lies in its simple yet carefully balanced ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in delivering the dish's rich flavor and creamy texture.

Pasta: Use your favorite pasta shape, but spaghetti or linguine work particularly well. Their long strands soak up the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor. Mince it finely to release its aromatic oils, which infuse the sauce with a robust, savory kick.

Butter and Olive Oil: This combination creates the perfect base for sautéing the garlic. The butter adds richness, while the olive oil prevents it from burning.

Heavy Cream: The key to a luscious, velvety sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, though the sauce will be less creamy.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the dish, adding a salty, nutty depth of flavor. Pre-grated versions often don’t melt as smoothly, so stick with freshly grated for the best results.

Seasonings: A pinch of salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of parsley enhance the dish’s overall flavor, adding a touch of brightness to balance the creaminess.

No special equipment is needed, just a large pot for the pasta and a skillet for the sauce.

How To Make This 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta

Creating this creamy garlic pasta is as easy as it is delicious. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and the mixture is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

Lower the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes silky smooth. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, tossing it to coat evenly in the sauce. The pasta should absorb some of the sauce, making every bite creamy and flavorful.

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. This dish is best enjoyed piping hot for maximum creaminess.

Storage Options

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for later.

Transfer any remaining pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the pan to help revive the sauce’s creaminess. Heat gently over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating.

Avoid freezing this dish, as the creamy sauce may become grainy once thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this creamy garlic pasta lies in its adaptability. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Twist: Toss in sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for added color and nutrients.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper can add a delightful kick.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version.

No matter how you customize it, this creamy garlic pasta is sure to become a versatile favorite in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a quick, comforting meal that delivers big on flavor.

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