Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Indulge in this Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta that's bursting with flavor and incredibly simple to make.

Ella Townsend

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:31:48.874Z

This Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of cream with the aromatic flavors of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Creamy texture that coats every strand of pasta
  • Garlicky goodness that adds a punch of flavor
  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When it comes to quick and satisfying dinners, Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta stands out as a top choice. This dish takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time. Plus, the creamy garlic sauce is a delicious way to elevate your pasta game without requiring extensive cooking skills.

Not only is this dish quick to make, but it's also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, proteins, or even swapping the pasta type. Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or fresh veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes, this creamy garlic sauce will complement any addition beautifully. This flexibility makes it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to please a crowd or just enjoy a comforting solo meal.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta turns out perfectly, remember a few key cooking tips. First, always salt your pasta water generously. This is a crucial step that enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. Second, be cautious with the garlic; sauté it just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. Burnt garlic can ruin your sauce, so keep an eye on it while it cooks.

Another helpful tip is to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be a lifesaver when it comes to adjusting the sauce's consistency. Adding a splash of reserved pasta water to the creamy sauce can help it adhere better to the pasta, creating that luscious coating we all love. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the amount of cheese as well; more Parmesan can deepen the flavor and creaminess of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta:

Ingredients

  • 250g spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for the best experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your creamy garlic pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta!

Serve this dish warm and enjoy the creamy delight!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta, you're in luck! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, simply place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to help loosen the sauce.

Reheating in the microwave is also an option, but be cautious to avoid overcooking. To maintain the creamy texture, cover the dish with a damp paper towel while microwaving. This helps prevent it from drying out. Enjoy your leftovers as a quick lunch or a cozy dinner the next day!

Nutritional Information

Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta is not only delicious but can also be tailored to fit different dietary preferences. A typical serving offers a satisfying balance of carbohydrates from the pasta and healthy fats from the olive oil and cream. If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or even a plant-based cream for a lighter vegan option.

Don't forget the nutritional benefits of garlic! Garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including its antioxidant properties and ability to support heart health. By incorporating garlic into your meals, you can enjoy great flavor while adding nutritional value. Always remember to balance your meals with a variety of food groups to ensure you're meeting your dietary needs.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you prefer can work well with this creamy sauce.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat alternative.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and just toss it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This pasta pairs well with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta

Indulge in this Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta that's bursting with flavor and incredibly simple to make.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Ella Townsend

Recipe Type: Healthy & Light

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 250g spaghetti
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 cup heavy cream
  5. 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 03

Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 04

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Step 05

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 10g