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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

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A quick and easy creamy garlic parmesan pasta recipe that delivers rich, garlicky, cheesy comfort food perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or your favorite pasta shape
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (optional)
  • 1 cup (90 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water for later.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden—be careful not to burn it.
  3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour over the butter and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste, forming a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk and 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream. Keep whisking to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in 1 cup (90 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  6. Add salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon) and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. If desired, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  7. Add the drained pasta to the sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat every strand evenly with the sauce. Heat together for 1-2 minutes so flavors meld.
  8. Transfer to plates or bowls, garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Use freshly grated parmesan for best texture and flavor. Save some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Avoid boiling sauce after adding cheese to prevent clumping. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and flour. For dairy-free, substitute milk and cream with almond or oat milk and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy garlic parmesan pasta, easy pasta recipe, comfort food, quick dinner, cheesy pasta, garlic pasta, beginner recipe

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/creamy-garlic-parmesan-pasta-recipe-easy-comfort-meal-for-beginners/