Creamy Garlic Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine (about 3/4 of a 1-lb box); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/4 cups heavy cream; 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Some nights call for a big bowl of something creamy and comforting, and this pasta delivers every single time. The sauce is built on real garlic and real Parmesan — no powdered shortcuts — and it clings to every strand of fettuccine like a velvet ribbon. It is faster than delivery, cheaper than a restaurant, and it makes the whole kitchen smell incredible. This is the recipe I reach for when I want to impress guests without stressing myself out.

Bowl of creamy garlic pasta with Parmesan and parsley

By AmiraCuisinety Test Kitchen · recipe tested twice before publishing

Prep Time10 minutes

Cook Time20 minutes

Total Time30 minutes

Servings4

DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine (about 3/4 of a 1-lb box)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until al dente, about 10 minutes or per package directions. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Lower the heat and whisk in the Parmesan a handful at a time, letting each addition melt before adding more. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well. Splash in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce is glossy and coats every noodle.
Finish with chopped parsley and an extra snowfall of Parmesan. Serve immediately — creamy pasta waits for no one.

Tips for Success

Grate the Parmesan yourself. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that make the sauce grainy instead of silky.
Pasta water is liquid gold. The starch helps the sauce emulsify and cling to the noodles, so never skip reserving it.
For a protein boost, add seared chicken or shrimp — cook it first, set it aside, and toss it in at the end.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and more prone to breaking. Whole milk plus an extra tablespoon of butter and a little flour whisked in at the start is the best workaround.

Why did my sauce turn grainy?

Usually this happens when pre-shredded cheese is used or the heat is too high when the cheese goes in. Keep the heat low and add freshly grated Parmesan gradually.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.

What can I add to make it a full meal?

Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, steamed broccoli, or blistered cherry tomatoes all fold in beautifully without changing the base recipe.

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