15 Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of creamy garlic pasta to make your day feel a little brighter. With a velvety sauce infused with the rich aroma of garlic and a hint of Parmesan, this dish is comfort food at its finest – and the best part? It’s ready in just 15 minutes!

this Recipe

I stumbled upon this recipe one rushed evening when I needed something quick but satisfying. After a long day, it’s my go-to meal for when I want to unwind without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the details of why you’ll love this pasta and how to make it your new favorite weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Pasta

Get ready to add this 15-minute creamy garlic pasta to your weekly dinner rotation. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights, delivering indulgent flavors with minimal effort.

First and foremost, it’s lightning-fast. From boiling the pasta to whisking the sauce, the entire process takes less than 15 minutes. Perfect for when you're juggling work, kids, or just need a quick dinner fix.

This recipe is also budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like spaghetti, garlic, and Parmesan, you can whip up a gourmet meal without breaking the bank.

Finally, it’s adaptable. Whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or looking to add protein like chicken or shrimp, this recipe is a flexible base for countless variations.

Ready to see how it all comes together? Let’s start with the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

This dish is proof that a few simple ingredients can create something magical. Here's a closer look at what you'll need to make this creamy garlic pasta shine.

• Spaghetti: The classic choice for this dish, spaghetti cooks quickly and holds the sauce beautifully. You can substitute with fettuccine, linguine, or even a gluten-free option if preferred.
• Garlic: The heart of this recipe, fresh garlic brings bold, aromatic flavors to the sauce. Mince it finely or use a garlic press for the best results.
• Heavy cream: This creates the rich, creamy base for the sauce. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less indulgent.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key to adding depth and umami to the sauce. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it won’t melt as smoothly.
• Butter: Adds a luxurious texture and enhances the garlic’s flavor as it sautés. You can use unsalted butter to better control the seasoning.
• Pasta water: Don’t skip this! The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a silky, restaurant-quality finish.

No special equipment is needed beyond a large pot and a skillet, making this recipe even more accessible.

How to Make This Creamy Garlic Pasta

Creating this 15-minute creamy garlic pasta is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps for a foolproof dish every time.

1. Cook the spaghetti
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the garlic
   While the pasta cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Make the creamy sauce
   Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking gently to combine. Let the cream warm for 1-2 minutes before adding ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
4. Combine pasta and sauce
   Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, gradually adding the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water not only thins the sauce but also helps it cling to the spaghetti.
5. Season and serve
   Taste and adjust with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Garnish with more Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

In just 15 minutes, you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal ready to enjoy!

Storage Options

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for a quick meal later. Here’s how to do it right.

• Refrigeration: Place leftover pasta in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid excess moisture.
• Freezing: Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well, but you can freeze the pasta for up to 1 month if needed. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the sauce separate.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are some ideas to customize your creamy garlic pasta:

• Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon to make it heartier.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce.
• Vegetarian upgrades: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra veggies and color.
• Dairy-free option: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free twist.
• Change up the pasta: Use fettuccine, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a fun variation.

No matter how you tweak it, this recipe is forgiving and open to creativity. Experiment and find your perfect combination!

This 15-minute creamy garlic pasta is a surefire way to bring comfort and joy to your table, even on the busiest nights. Whether you're cooking for family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers indulgence with ease. Make it once, and it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!

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