Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta in 20 Minutes

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Craving a restaurant-quality pasta but short on time? This creamy garlic butter pasta comes together in just 20 minutes, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas and delivering rich, indulgent flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires no fancy skills—just simple ingredients and buttery magic.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant—don’t let it brown.
  3. Pour in heavy cream. Stir and simmer gently for 3 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Add grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
  5. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet. If the sauce feels thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Cook 1–2 minutes until the pasta is coated.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with extra parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

  • Protein boost: Stir in 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or grilled salmon during the last minute of cooking.
  • Vegetable twist: Sauté spinach, peas, or mushrooms with the garlic for added color and nutrients.
  • Creamier texture: Add 2 tbsp sour cream or cream cheese with the Parmesan.
  • Dairy-free: Substitute butter with olive oil and heavy cream with coconut milk.
  • Quick garnish: Top with lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness.

Serving Suggestion

Serve garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread. This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Grigio.

In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a decadent meal that feels elegant yet effortless. The garlicky butter sauce clings lovingly to each noodle, making every bite silky and satisfying. Perfect for feeding a family or treating yourself—this recipe proves simplicity can be supremely delicious!

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