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Quick Creamy Pasta Delight

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A fast and easy creamy pasta recipe ready in 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. This dish features a luscious sauce made with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese that coats your favorite pasta beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup (75 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • A handful fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • Optional add-ins: red pepper flakes, cooked chicken or shrimp, splash of white wine

Instructions

  1. Boil the pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. Sauté the garlic: While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil and 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden but not burnt.
  3. Add the cream: Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, stirring constantly. Lower heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened and silky.
  4. Incorporate cheese and seasoning: Gradually stir in 3/4 cup (75 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  5. Toss pasta into sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss well to coat every strand. Heat together for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
  6. Finish with fresh parsley: Remove from heat and sprinkle a handful of finely chopped fresh parsley over the top.
  7. Serve immediately: Plate the pasta right away for best creamy texture. Optionally, add extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes for a kick.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor. Avoid burning garlic by cooking on medium heat and stirring frequently. Toss pasta in sauce off heat to keep it silky. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free, substitute cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: quick pasta, creamy pasta, easy dinner, 15-minute meal, homemade pasta sauce, Parmesan pasta, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/quick-creamy-pasta-delight-recipe-15-minute-easy-homemade-dinner/