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- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving) You need a few simple items to create creamy garlic Parmesan pasta. First, pick your pasta: fettuccine or spaghetti work best. Next, grab unsalted butter, garlic, and heavy cream. These ingredients form the creamy sauce. Finally, fresh Parmesan cheese gives the dish its rich flavor. - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend - Salt and black pepper to taste - Optional: crushed red pepper flakes To spice things up, I suggest using Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. These flavors blend well with the creamy sauce. If you like some heat, add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) - Additional Parmesan for serving - Variations for dietary preferences Garnish your dish with fresh parsley for color and flavor. You can also add more Parmesan on top before serving. If you have dietary interests, consider using gluten-free pasta or vegan cheese. This dish remains delicious while catering to various needs. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions. To cook your fettuccine or spaghetti, start with a large pot. Fill it with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook it as per the package instructions. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. To check, taste a piece a minute or two before the time is up. When it's just right, carefully reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before you drain the rest. Set the pasta aside and keep it warm. Now, let's make the sauce. In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add 4 finely minced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring often. You want it to smell great but not brown. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep whisking until the cheese is smooth and the sauce is creamy. Next, it’s time to combine everything. Add the warm pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss the pasta until every piece is coated with the creamy sauce. If you find the sauce is too thick, mix in some of that reserved pasta water a little at a time. This helps get the right thickness. If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes and stir well. Enjoy this creamy garlic Parmesan pasta as a comforting meal any night! To get the right sauce texture, start with low heat. High heat can burn the garlic and ruin the flavor. When melting the butter, keep stirring. This helps mix in the garlic without browning it. To avoid clumping in your sauce, whisk in the cheese slowly. Add small amounts at a time. This way, it melts evenly. If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Mix it in until you reach the perfect creaminess. You can boost the flavor by adding fresh herbs. Basil, oregano, or thyme work great. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. Adding proteins or veggies can make your meal heartier. Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp pairs well. For a veggie option, try adding spinach or broccoli. They add color and nutrients. A fresh side salad goes well with this pasta. It balances the richness of the sauce. Garlic bread is another great choice. It adds crunch and flavor. When plating, use a large bowl. Twirl the pasta into a nest shape for height. Top with parsley and extra cheese for a nice look. This makes your dish as appealing as it is tasty. For the full recipe, you can check out my detailed guide. {{image_4}} For a lighter dish, try using light cream or milk. This swap reduces fat but keeps the creamy texture. You can also add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes. These not only boost nutrition but also add color and flavor. You can easily customize this dish by adding proteins. Chicken or shrimp both work well. Cook them in the skillet before adding the garlic and cream. You can also experiment with different cheeses. Try using goat cheese or cheddar for a unique twist. Each cheese adds its own flavor. If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great alternatives that cook well. For a vegan version, use plant-based cream and cheese. You can find these at most grocery stores. These options let everyone enjoy creamy garlic Parmesan pasta! To store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh and flavorful. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. After that, the quality may drop. Check for any odd smells or changes in texture before eating. When reheating, I suggest using the stove. Heat a pan over low heat. Add a splash of cream or water to keep it moist. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. This method helps maintain the creamy texture. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish. Add a little liquid and cover it with a lid. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, to avoid dryness. Yes, you can freeze this pasta! It keeps well for up to two months. To freeze, let it cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal even after some time! For the detailed recipe, see the Full Recipe section. Yes, you can make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on low heat. Add a splash of cream or pasta water to keep it creamy. Avoid using high heat, as this can make the pasta dry. This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are some suggestions: - Garlic bread for a crunchy bite. - A fresh green salad to add crispness. - Roasted vegetables for extra flavor. - Grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. These options make your meal more complete and tasty. To add heat, try these options: - Mix in crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount and add more to taste. - Use a spicy Italian sausage instead of regular sausage. - Add diced jalapeños or chili peppers to the sauce. These choices enhance flavor and make the dish exciting. You can use pre-grated cheese, but fresh cheese is better. Here are the pros and cons: Pros: - Convenient and saves time. - Easy to find in stores. Cons: - Pre-grated cheese may not melt as well. - It might contain anti-caking agents that affect taste. For the best results, I recommend using freshly grated cheese from a block. It adds creaminess and flavor. For the full recipe, check out the original dish! Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is easy and tasty. We covered main ingredients like fettuccine, butter, and garlic. I shared tips for cooking pasta and making a creamy sauce. You learned how to enhance flavors and serve it nicely. Remember, you can adapt recipes for health needs or preferences. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just yourself, this dish is a winner. Try it today and make it your own!

- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Looking for a delicious and simple dinner idea? Try my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, a flavorful family favorite that’s sure to impress! With just a few ingredients like fettuccine, garlic, and fresh Parmesan cheese, you can whip up a creamy dish that feels gourmet. Perfect for busy nights or special occasions, this recipe is customizable for all dietary needs. Click to explore the full recipe and make mealtime memorable!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, carefully reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the remainder. Set the pasta aside, keeping it warm.

    Prepare the Sauce: In a spacious skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for approximately 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until it becomes fragrant but avoids browning.

      Create a Creamy Base: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and allow it to gently come to a simmer. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese while whisking continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce transforms into a luxurious, creamy consistency.

        Enhance the Flavor: Incorporate the Italian seasoning into the sauce, and taste for seasoning. Adjust the flavor with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually mix in a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired creaminess.

          Toss with Pasta: Add the reserved, warm pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce until each strand is well coated. If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes and mix well.

            Plate with Style: Serve the creamy pasta in warm bowls, elegantly garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan on top if desired.

              - Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Servings: 4

                Enjoy this delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures for a truly satisfying meal!