Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Introduction
Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This creamy and garlicky pasta comes together in under 30 minutes, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 teaspoons garlic (minced, approx. 4 cloves)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole milk is best)
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 2: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, then add the milk, stirring to combine well.
- Step 3: Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Step 4: Add the angel hair pasta and let it simmer in the sauce for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring as you add it to help it melt into the sauce. The sauce will thicken as the cheese melts and the pasta absorbs some liquid.
- Step 6: Serve immediately, with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian option, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein and a heartier meal.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting consistency.
- If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk or broth to restore creaminess if the sauce has thickened.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other thin pasta types like spaghetti or fettuccine, but cooking times may vary slightly.
Is it okay to use pre-minced garlic?
Pre-minced garlic can work in a pinch, but fresh garlic will provide a stronger, fresher flavor.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta combines tender angel hair noodles with a rich sauce made from butter, garlic, chicken broth, milk, and parmesan cheese. Lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional Italian herbs, this stovetop dish is perfect for a quick, comforting meal that’s full of flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 teaspoons garlic (minced, approx. 4 cloves)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter fully. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes fragrant, releasing its aroma.
- Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring as you add it. Follow by adding the whole milk, combining well to create the base of the sauce.
- Season and Boil: Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and optional Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil to start infusing the flavors.
- Cook Pasta in Sauce: Add the angel hair pasta to the boiling sauce and allow it to simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the noodles from sticking and to help the pasta absorb the flavorful liquid.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously to help the cheese melt smoothly into the sauce, thickening it up as the pasta finishes cooking.
- Serve: Once the sauce is creamy and the pasta tender, serve immediately. Optionally, sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the creamiest sauce, but you can substitute with 2% or lactose-free milk if desired.
- Angel hair pasta cooks quickly; watch closely to avoid overcooking.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Adjust garlic quantity to taste for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
- Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Pasta, creamy pasta recipe, angel hair pasta, quick pasta dinner, stovetop pasta, easy garlic pasta, parmesan cheese pasta
