Garlic Parmesan Pasta
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Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a dish that’s both comforting and delightfully simple. The creamy garlic sauce enveloping the tender angel hair pasta feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for those moments when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or simply looking for a filling family meal, this Garlic Parmesan Pasta never disappoints.
Why you’ll love this dish
Cooking at home doesn’t have to be complicated, and Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a quintessential example of deliciousness achieved simply. This dish is budget-friendly, kid-approved, and can effortlessly transition from a weeknight family dinner to an elegant date-night meal. Imagine serving a hearty pasta bathed in a buttery garlic sauce that is sure to make everyone at the table smile!
“I made this Garlic Parmesan Pasta for a quick dinner, and it was a hit! My kids couldn’t get enough, and it’s now a weekly staple. Thank you for the easy recipe!” – A satisfied cook
Preparing Garlic Parmesan Pasta
This recipe is as easy as it gets! You’ll start by sautéing fresh garlic in melted butter, then gradually add chicken broth and milk to create a delightful sauce. The angel hair pasta cooks right in the sauce, absorbing all those garlicky, cheesy flavors. Finally, you’ll stir in the grated Parmesan, allowing it to melt into a rich, creamy coating for the pasta. In just a few steps, you’ll be serving a homemade dish that feels special!
What you’ll need
Gather these items from your kitchen to prepare Garlic Parmesan Pasta:
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 teaspoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk (or your preferred milk variant)
- 8 ounces angel hair pasta
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Feel free to replace angel hair with spaghetti or even a gluten-free pasta option to suit your dietary needs!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring.
- Add the milk and mix well.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, then stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Introduce the angel hair pasta, letting it simmer in the sauce for 4-5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low, and slowly add the parmesan cheese, stirring as you go to melt it into the sauce. It will thicken beautifully as the pasta absorbs some liquid.
- Serve immediately, topped with extra parmesan if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
Garlic Parmesan Pasta offers a delightful base that you can enhance with various sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette or garlic bread for a complete meal. For protein lovers, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs wonderfully with the pasta, adding texture and flavor.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you have any leftovers, which is rare with this delicious dish, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency. You can also freeze the pasta for up to a month—just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Pro chef tips
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—garlic powder will not yield the same depth.
- Stay vigilant while cooking the angel hair as it cooks quickly; you don’t want it to become mushy.
- Taste as you go; everyone’s palate is different, and adjusting the seasonings can make a world of difference.
Recipe variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some creative twists you can try:
- Add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking.
- Make it a one-pot wonder by adding cooked shrimp or chicken breast in the last few minutes of cooking.
Your questions answered
What’s the prep time for Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook—perfect for a quick meal!
Can I use a dairy-free option?
Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk, and use vegan parmesan for a dairy-free version.
How do I know when the pasta is cooked?
Angel hair pasta cooks quickly, typically in 4-5 minutes. It should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente) when done.
With these tips and insights, you’re ready to dive into making Garlic Parmesan Pasta that’s sure to win hearts and taste buds alike! Enjoy the creamy goodness tonight!
Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring.
- Add the milk and mix well.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, then stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Introduce the angel hair pasta, letting it simmer in the sauce for 4-5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low, and slowly add the parmesan cheese, stirring as you go to melt it into the sauce.
- Serve immediately, topped with extra parmesan if desired.
