This creamy garlic pasta is a quick and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting meal at home. With a velvety sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked pasta (linguine recommended)
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or whipping cream)
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the Sauce Base:

While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the flour and stir continuously to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes, ensuring the flour loses its raw taste.

3. Infuse with Garlic and Broth:

Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring well, and let it simmer for about 1 minute.

4. Make it Creamy:

Whisk in the heavy cream and allow the sauce to simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

5. Add the Cheese and Seasoning:

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Toss the drained pasta in the sauce until evenly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

7. Serve and Garnish:

Plate the pasta immediately, garnishing with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep and cooking time.
Rich and Creamy: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a luscious sauce.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit different tastes and preferences.

Tips

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Keep the sauce over medium heat to avoid scorching or separating.
Save a cup of pasta water before draining—it’s handy for adjusting sauce consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for a heartier meal.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Herbal Twist: Stir in fresh basil, thyme, or oregano for added flavor.
Low-Fat Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works well with spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you prefer.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free pasta.

Serving and Suggestions

Pair this creamy garlic pasta with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Top with grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed vegetables for added variety.
Serve with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy flavors.