15 Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

There's something truly comforting about a bowl of creamy garlic pasta, especially on a busy weeknight. The silky sauce, infused with the rich aroma of garlic, clings to every strand of pasta, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless.

I first discovered this recipe during a frantic search for a quick dinner that didn’t require a trip to the store. With just a handful of pantry staples and a craving for something delicious, this creamy garlic pasta was born. Now, it's my go-to for those nights when time is short, but my appetite is big.

Let’s dive into this quick, satisfying recipe that'll become your new weeknight hero.

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

Get ready to meet the recipe you’ll reach for time and time again. This creamy garlic pasta is everything a weeknight dinner should be—fast, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.

First, it’s incredibly quick to make. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a complete dish on the table, perfect for those evenings when every second counts.

It’s also a pantry-friendly recipe. With ingredients like pasta, garlic, cream, and Parmesan, you probably already have everything you need. No last-minute grocery runs required!

Plus, the flavor is simply divine. The creamy sauce, with its bold garlic kick, feels like a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your home.

Best of all, it’s endlessly versatile. Pair it with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Ready to see how simple this dish is to whip up? Let’s move on to the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this 15-minute creamy garlic pasta lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort.

• Pasta: Classic spaghetti or fettuccine works best, but you can use any shape you love or have on hand. The key is to cook it al dente, so it holds up well to the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that bold, aromatic flavor. Mince it finely or use a garlic press for convenience.
• Heavy Cream: This forms the base of the sauce, giving it a rich, luxurious texture. For a lighter option, half-and-half works in a pinch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth to the sauce. Skip the pre-shredded kind—it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Butter: A small amount of butter rounds out the sauce, adding a subtle richness.
• Salt and Pepper: These simple seasonings enhance the dish without overpowering the creamy garlic flavor.

No special equipment is required—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 couldn’t be easier. Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal in no time.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Save about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining—this will help perfect the sauce.

While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can taste bitter.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine with the garlic. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Add the grated Parmesan and stir until it’s fully melted into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring every strand is coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked pepper for a touch of elegance.

Storage Options

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for up to three days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid separating the sauce.

Unfortunately, this dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream-based sauce, which can become grainy when thawed. But with a recipe this quick, there’s little need to freeze it!

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe makes it perfect for adapting to your taste or dietary needs.

• Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for a heartier version.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Go green: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale to add a pop of color and nutrients.
• Dairy-free option: Use a non-dairy cream alternative and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a vegan twist.

Experiment freely—you might just discover your new favorite version of this creamy garlic pasta!

Creamy, garlicky, and ready in just 15 minutes, this pasta recipe is a must-try. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the family, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Why not give it a try tonight?

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