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Creamy Garlic Pasta

A quick and comforting creamy garlic pasta made with a rich, velvety sauce and tender pasta. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or cozy comfort meals.
Course: DinnerCuisine: Italian-InspiredPrep Time: 10 minutesCook Time: 15 minutesTotal Time: 25 minutesServings: 4Calories: ~520 kcal per serving

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne
  • Salt for pasta water
  • For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Reserved pasta water as needed

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add garlic and sauté gently until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in the cream and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  6. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat, adding pasta water as needed.
  7. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  8. Serve immediately.