Name: 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 250 g spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite pasta; 3 garlic cloves, finely minced; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish); 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

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Sometimes, you just need a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Enter the 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe—a dish that brings indulgent, restaurant-quality flavors to your table in just minutes. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for a comforting dinner option, this recipe is guaranteed to please.

Imagine tender pasta coated in a luxurious garlic cream sauce, topped with freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley. It’s rich, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. Best of all, with just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this delicious dish without a trip to the store. It’s the perfect option for busy weeknights, a cozy dinner for two, or even a quick lunch when you’re short on time.

Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Pasta

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this dish. Here are just a few:

Quick and Easy:
This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes. With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you still want a home-cooked meal.
Rich and Flavorful:
The creamy garlic sauce is the star of the show—smooth, garlicky, and packed with parmesan for a cheesy, nutty depth.
Made with Pantry Staples:
All you need are a few simple ingredients like pasta, garlic, butter, cream, and cheese. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Customizable:
Add your favorite proteins like chicken, shrimp, or pancetta, or toss in veggies like spinach or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless.
Loved by Everyone:
This dish is a crowd-pleaser. The creamy garlic sauce is mild yet indulgent, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.

What Makes Creamy Garlic Pasta So Special?

Creamy garlic pasta takes inspiration from classic Italian pasta dishes but simplifies the process for everyday cooks. The secret lies in its rich, velvety sauce. Made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and parmesan, this sauce is luscious and indulgent without being overly complicated.

The garlic is gently sautéed to release its aroma and infuse the sauce with bold flavor, while the parmesan brings a nutty, salty kick. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a fancy Italian restaurant.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Pasta

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pasta: Use long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine for a classic look. Short pasta like penne or rigatoni also works if you prefer something heartier. Always cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the key to this recipe. You’ll need 3-4 cloves, finely minced, to infuse the sauce with its bold, aromatic flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter forms the base of the sauce and adds richness. If you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream (or double cream) gives the sauce its luxurious, silky texture. Substitute with half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream for a lighter option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts beautifully into the sauce and adds a nutty, salty depth. Avoid pre-shredded cheese for the best results.
Seasonings: Salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes provide seasoning and a hint of spice.
Parsley (Optional): Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the sauce.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta in Just 15 Minutes

This recipe is beginner-friendly and incredibly straightforward. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until the pasta is fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Divide the pasta into serving bowls or plates. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan, chopped parsley, and an extra sprinkle of black pepper or red pepper flakes. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Pasta

Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers the best flavor. Avoid jarred garlic or garlic powder for this recipe.
Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent browning.
Save Pasta Water: Reserved pasta water is key to adjusting the sauce’s consistency without diluting its flavor.
Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed immediately, as the sauce thickens as it cools.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Toss in proteins or veggies to customize the recipe to your liking.