15 Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

There's nothing like the simple joy of a bowl of creamy garlic pasta, especially when it comes together in just 15 minutes. This silky, luscious dish is the perfect comfort food, offering rich flavors and a velvety sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during a hectic weeknight, searching for something quick yet satisfying to feed my family. With just a handful of pantry staples, this meal became an instant favorite—and I’m sure it will in your home, too.

Why You'll Love This 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy and delicious recipe. It's everything you need in a weeknight meal: quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

First, let’s talk about how fast it is to prepare. From start to finish, this dish takes just 15 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy days. No complicated techniques or endless prep—just simple steps to a mouthwatering meal.

The creamy garlic sauce is the star of the show. Infused with freshly minced garlic and perfectly seasoned, it delivers a robust flavor that feels indulgent but isn’t heavy.

This recipe is also wonderfully versatile. Whether you want to serve it as a main dish or pair it with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables, it adapts beautifully to your table.

Finally, it’s made with accessible, budget-friendly ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your kitchen, which means no last-minute trips to the store.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

The pasta is the heart of this dish. Long varieties like spaghetti or linguine work best, as they swirl effortlessly with the creamy sauce. However, short pastas like penne or rigatoni also work well for a heartier feel.

Garlic is the undeniable star here, so fresh cloves are essential. Their natural sweetness shines when sautéed, creating a fragrant base for the sauce. Avoid pre-minced garlic for the best flavor.

For the sauce, heavy cream provides the ideal richness. If you're looking for a slightly lighter option, you can substitute it with half-and-half, though the sauce may be thinner.

Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty depth to the dish. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results, as pre-grated versions often lack the same fresh flavor and creamy texture.

A touch of butter ties everything together, lending the sauce a velvety finish. Combined with a drizzle of olive oil, it helps to sauté the garlic without browning too quickly.

You won’t need any special equipment—just a large pot for boiling the pasta and a wide skillet or saucepan to prepare the sauce.

How To Make This 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta

Creating this luxurious creamy garlic pasta is as easy as it gets. With just a few simple steps, you'll have a restaurant-quality dish ready to enjoy.

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to season the pasta as it cooks. Drop in your choice of pasta and cook it according to package instructions until al dente.

While the pasta cooks, heat a wide skillet over medium heat. Melt a tablespoon of butter with a drizzle of olive oil, allowing the butter to foam slightly. Add freshly minced garlic to the skillet, stirring gently. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden—about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn, as this can make it bitter.

Next, pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce gently simmer for 3-4 minutes, thickening slightly. Grate in a generous handful of Parmesan cheese, whisking until it melts completely into the sauce.

Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the starchy cooking water. Toss the pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce, stirring to coat every strand. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with more Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.

In just 15 minutes, you have a creamy, garlicky masterpiece ready to serve. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), this pasta keeps well for later. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating is simple: place the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through. Avoid reheating at high temperatures, as this may cause the sauce to separate.

Freezing this pasta isn’t recommended, as the creamy sauce can lose its smooth texture once thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

This 15-minute creamy garlic pasta is endlessly customizable, making it easy to tailor to your preferences.

Add a protein like grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted tofu for a heartier meal. Simply cook your protein separately and toss it into the sauce before serving.

For a veggie-packed version, mix in sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or roasted mushrooms. The earthy flavors pair beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce.

Want a little heat? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick that balances the richness.

For a dairy-free twist, swap the cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. The result is a deliciously creamy sauce with a unique flavor profile.

Experiment with different herbs and seasonings to make the dish your own. Basil, thyme, or a touch of nutmeg can elevate the flavors in delightful ways.

Simple, versatile, and irresistibly creamy, this 15-minute garlic pasta is a recipe you'll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting treat on a lazy weekend, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

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