Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of another 10, you can have a creamy, garlicky pasta dish ready in less than 20 minutes! It’s made in one pot, reducing the cleanup, and it’s packed with flavor from the combination of Parmesan cheese, fresh garlic, and optional seasonings. The creamy sauce, combined with tender angel hair pasta, creates a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Plus, it’s easily customizable to your taste, whether you like it spicy or with extra herbs.

Ingredients

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated

• 3 Tablespoons butter, divided

• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup milk

• 8 oz. angel hair pasta

• Fresh Parsley, to garnish

Optional seasonings:

• ¼ tsp of each: onion powder, oregano, thyme, parsley, pepper.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Grate the Parmesan cheese and set it aside to reach room temperature.

2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

4. Add the chicken broth to the skillet, followed by the optional seasonings. Slowly pour in the milk while stirring. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Add the angel hair pasta. For a better fit, break the pasta in half or allow it to soften and twist it into the skillet using kitchen tongs.

6. Let the pasta simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid clumping. Reduce the heat to low.

7. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and toss the pasta to coat.

8. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, continuing to mix until smooth and well-combined. The sauce will be thin at first but will thicken as it stands, and the pasta will continue to absorb it.

9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with garlic bread or roasted vegetables for the perfect meal.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 4 people

Variations

• Add Protein: Boost the protein by adding grilled chicken, shrimp to the pasta.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.

• Herb Variation: If you love fresh herbs, add fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for an extra depth of flavor.

• Vegan Option: Swap the butter with olive oil and use vegan Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm it up in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While this recipe uses angel hair pasta, you can substitute it with spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat with a bit of milk or broth to bring it back to a creamy consistency.

3. Can I use store-bought grated Parmesan cheese?

For the best results, it’s recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, as pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and can result in a grainy texture.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

5. What can I serve with this Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. It also goes great with grilled chicken or shrimp.

6. How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, you can cook the pasta for a little longer until it absorbs more of the sauce, or add a bit more Parmesan cheese at the end to help it thicken.

7. Can I use half-and-half instead of milk?

Yes, you can use half-and-half for a richer, creamier sauce, but milk works perfectly fine as well and will still result in a creamy texture.

8. Is this recipe suitable for a family?

Absolutely! This recipe serves 4, making it perfect for a family meal or small dinner gathering.

9. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Stir the pasta occasionally while it’s cooking to keep it from sticking together. If necessary, add a bit more chicken broth or milk if the sauce gets too thick.

10. Can I use frozen garlic instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen minced garlic, but fresh garlic will give you the best flavor and aroma.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and versatile meal that’s sure to satisfy any pasta lover. With just a handful of ingredients and one pot, you can make a creamy, garlicky pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a family, this recipe will not disappoint. Try it today and enjoy a comforting meal in under 20 minutes!