Description
Creamy, flavorful, and unbelievably easy, this Garlicky Saucy Pasta is your next go-to dinner idea! Made with fresh garlic, butter, parmesan, and a touch of cream, it’s a quick comfort meal that satisfies every time. Whether you’re looking for a fast weeknight dinner, a cozy meal for one, or easy dinner ideas for the whole family, this recipe has you covered. Packed with flavor, simple ingredients, and customizable options, it also fits right into your list of healthy snacks or food ideas with just a few tweaks. This easy recipe checks all the boxes: delicious, quick, and oh-so-satisfying.
Ingredients
8 oz pasta
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Pour in heavy cream, stir and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until the sauce is smooth.
5. Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
6. Serve immediately topped with more parmesan and fresh herbs. Optional: drizzle with olive oil or a squeeze of lemon.
Notes
Use freshly grated parmesan for best melting and flavor.
Don’t overcook the garlic—keep it golden, not brown.
Add protein like chicken or shrimp to make it a full meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: quick dinner, creamy pasta, garlic sauce, easy recipe, dinner ideas