Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe: A Flavorful, One-Pan Dinner in Just 20 Minutes

If you're looking for a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make pasta dish that satisfies your cravings, this Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe is just what you need. Rich in flavor and ultra-comforting, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights. Whether you're a pasta lover or just need a cozy dinner that the whole family will enjoy, this recipe will hit the spot.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I first stumbled upon this recipe while browsing Insanely Good Recipes, and I knew I had to try it. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen because of its simplicity and rich taste. I’m excited to share this amazing recipe with you!

Garlic and Parmesan are a classic combination that’s hard to resist. The creamy sauce coats every strand of spaghetti, and the subtle garlic undertones pair beautifully with the sharp, salty Parmesan. You can serve this dish as a main course or a side alongside some grilled chicken or roasted veggies.

A Brief History of Pasta and Parmesan

While the origins of pasta go back centuries to ancient civilizations, it was in Italy where pasta truly flourished. Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano Reggiano, is an equally storied ingredient with deep roots in Italian culinary history. Known as the "King of Cheeses," Parmesan adds a savory depth to this dish, making it both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 1⁄2 cups chicken broth
• 1 1⁄2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Melt the Butter and Garlic
   Start by heating the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to brown the garlic—it should remain golden and aromatic.
2. Create the Sauce Base
   Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then season the mixture with salt and pepper. Bring this to a boil, stirring occasionally to make sure everything is well combined.
3. Cook the Spaghetti
   Break the spaghetti in half (this makes it easier to cook evenly), and add it to the skillet. Submerge the noodles in the boiling liquid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the pasta simmer, stirring occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly, for about 10-12 minutes. If the sauce thickens too much, feel free to add a splash more broth or milk to loosen it up.
4. Add the Parmesan
   Once the pasta is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, smooth texture.
5. Taste and Adjust
   Taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. If you're a garlic lover, you can even sprinkle some extra minced garlic on top!
6. Serve and Garnish
   Serve your creamy garlic Parmesan pasta immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on the side. The fresh parsley adds a burst of color and brightness, balancing the richness of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Variations

• Make it Vegetarian: Simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make this a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to this dish. Each of these will complement the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free for a celiac-friendly version of this dish.

Pairing Suggestions

This Garlic Parmesan Pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. For a more indulgent meal, serve it with garlic bread or grilled chicken. A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, also makes a perfect match for this creamy dish.

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