15 Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

There’s nothing like the smell of garlic sizzling in butter to get your taste buds ready for an amazing meal. This 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—quick, rich, and irresistibly creamy.

I discovered this gem on a night when I needed something fast but still wanted that “fancy dinner” vibe. With just a handful of pantry staples, it’s become my go-to for weeknight dinners and last-minute guests. Ready to turn an ordinary evening into something extraordinary? Let’s dive in!

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

This recipe is proof that delicious doesn’t have to mean complicated. In just 15 minutes, you can have a decadent meal that feels restaurant-worthy.

First, let’s talk speed. Whether you’re racing against homework deadlines or just too tired to cook after work, this pasta comes together in no time. Boil, stir, and voilà—you’re done!

The simplicity is another win. With only a few ingredients—most of which you probably already have—this dish is budget-friendly and perfect for those “what’s in the pantry?” kind of nights.

And the flavor? Oh, the flavor. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while the garlic brings a bold, savory punch. It’s like a hug in a bowl.

Not to mention, it’s endlessly versatile. You can jazz it up with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted veggies. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your new weeknight staple!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Creamy Garlic Pasta lies in its simplicity. Let’s break down the key players that make this dish shine.

• Pasta: Classic spaghetti is my top pick for this recipe. Its long, thin strands hold the sauce beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try fettuccine or linguine for a slightly different texture.
• Garlic: The star of the show! Freshly minced garlic delivers the best flavor. I use 6 cloves for a bold, garlicky kick, but feel free to adjust based on your preference.
• Butter and Olive Oil: A combination of these fats gives the sauce richness without feeling too heavy. The butter melts into the garlic, creating a luscious base, while the olive oil keeps it light.
• Heavy Cream: For that velvety texture, heavy cream is non-negotiable. You can substitute with half-and-half, but the sauce might be slightly thinner.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth. Skip the pre-shredded kind—it won’t melt as smoothly.
• Parsley (Optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness.

Finally, keep a pot of salted water boiling—it’s the secret to perfectly seasoned pasta and helps loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.

How To Make This 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta

Cooking this dish is a breeze, and I’ll guide you through every step to ensure your pasta turns out perfect every time.

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions. This usually takes 8-10 minutes, giving you plenty of time to prepare the sauce.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Base: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic. Stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant—don’t let it brown!
3. Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water. Add the pasta to the skillet and toss it in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Garnish and Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

This recipe is truly as easy as it sounds, and in just 15 minutes, you’ll have a dish that rivals any Italian restaurant.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (a rarity in my house), this pasta stores well with a few tips.

• Refrigerate: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but it’s easy to revive.
• Reheat: Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible—it can dry out the sauce.
• Freeze: While freezing creamy sauces isn’t ideal, you can freeze this dish in a pinch. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This Creamy Garlic Pasta is a fantastic base for experimentation. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
• Go Veggie: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil for a touch of heat.
• Swap the Pasta: Gluten-free or whole wheat pasta works well. Or, try it with zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
• Lighten It Up: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk, though the sauce may be less rich.

No matter how you tweak it, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a quick, creamy, and downright dreamy pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or indulging in a solo comfort meal, this 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta delivers every time.

Try it tonight, and don’t forget to share your variations and creations in the comments below!

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