Print

Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a quick and comforting dish featuring tender pasta coated in a silky sauce of butter, fresh garlic, Parmesan, and starchy pasta water. Ready in about 20 minutes, it makes an easy main dish or versatile side.

Ingredients

  • Pasta, such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
  • Unsalted butter
  • Fresh garlic
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Reserved pasta water
  • Salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes, optional
  • Fresh parsley, optional

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
  2. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta without rinsing.
  3. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant without letting it brown or burn.
  5. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet and toss thoroughly with the garlic butter.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan while tossing continuously. Add small splashes of reserved pasta water as needed to help create a smooth, glossy sauce.
  7. Continue tossing until the sauce evenly coats the pasta, adding more pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick or dry.
  8. Season with freshly ground black pepper and taste before adding additional salt because Parmesan is naturally salty.
  9. Add red pepper flakes if desired, then finish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan and keep the heat low while adding it to help prevent the cheese from clumping.
  • Do not discard the pasta water because its starch helps the butter and Parmesan form a smooth sauce.
  • For a creamier variation, add a splash of heavy cream after cooking the garlic and warm it gently before adding the pasta.
  • Add grilled chicken, shredded chicken, sautéed shrimp, or salmon for additional protein.
  • Spinach, broccoli, peas, asparagus, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes can be added for extra vegetables.
  • Add extra fresh garlic for a stronger flavor or use roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder variation.
  • Fresh lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice can be added to balance the richness with extra brightness.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of water, broth, or milk to restore the creamy consistency.
  • Freezing is not recommended because the Parmesan-based sauce can change texture after thawing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/garlic-parmesan-pasta-recipe/