Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Masterpiece

Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Masterpiece

Key Info:

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Total time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Difficulty: Easy

Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Optional Gluten-Free

Equipment Needed:

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Cheese grater
• Measuring cups

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti or penne
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 fresh garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Method:

1. Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for exactly 1-2 minutes until fragrant – don’t burn!



3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low.
4. Gradually add parmesan cheese, whisking smoothly. If sauce seems thick, add reserved pasta water.



5. Toss cooked pasta directly into sauce, coating thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan if desired.

Crucial Tips:

• Always reserve pasta water – it’s liquid gold for sauce consistency
• Grate parmesan fresh for best melting
• Medium-low heat prevents sauce separation

Storage:

• Refrigerate in sealed container
• Best consumed within 3-4 days
• Reheat gently with splash of milk

Variations:

• Add grilled chicken for protein
• Incorporate red pepper flakes for heat
• Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs

Pro Tip: The magic is in gentle heat and fresh ingredients. Rushed cooking kills delicate sauce magic!