Description
This creamy garlic pasta recipe is quick, comforting, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. Tender linguine is simmered in a garlicky broth, finished with cream and Parmesan, and served silky-smooth every time.
Ingredients
8 ounces linguine (or spaghetti/fettuccine)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for a richer base)
4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
1 cup heavy cream (half-and-half for lighter option)
1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Salt & black pepper, to taste
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds, until fragrant and golden (don’t let it burn).
Pour in the chicken broth and add linguine. Use tongs to press the pasta so it’s mostly submerged.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and broth has mostly absorbed.
Stir in heavy cream until silky.
Add Parmesan and toss until melted and creamy. If sauce is too thick, splash in a little broth or warm water.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Serve hot with fresh parsley on top.
Notes
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.
Not freezer-friendly: The cream sauce tends to separate when frozen.
Variations: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein. Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop, One-Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (¼ recipe)
- Calories: ~460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Creamy garlic pasta, one-pot pasta, easy dinner
