Introduction
Imagine a dish that combines the simplicity of a weeknight dinner with the richness of a garlic infused sauce, all ready in just 15 minutes – that’s what you get with my 15 minute creamy garlic pasta recipe. This dish is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of al dente pasta, a creamy sauce, and the deep flavor of garlic makes it a winner for any night of the week.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its quick preparation time and the use of readily available ingredients. It’s a great way to elevate a simple pasta dish into something special. Whether you’re a fan of garlic, love the richness of cream, or just appreciate a good pasta dish, this 15 minute creamy garlic pasta is sure to become a favorite.
In this recipe, we’ll explore how to make the most of your 15 minutes, crafting a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. So, let’s dive into the world of 15 minute creamy garlic pasta and discover the simplicity and flavor it has to offer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This 15 minute creamy garlic pasta recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The creamy garlic sauce is the star of the show, adding a richness and depth to the dish that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s ready in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy evenings.
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress. The garlic adds a pungency, the cream adds a richness, and the pasta ties everything together. It’s a match made in heaven.
Whether you’re cooking for one or for a family, this recipe is versatile and can be easily scaled up or down. It’s also a great base for adding your favorite proteins or vegetables, making it a very adaptable recipe for any meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) pasta
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp (5g) dried basil
- 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
- 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
When it comes to the ingredients, there are a few things to note. The heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter for a lighter version. However, keep in mind that the flavor and richness might be slightly compromised.
The Parmesan cheese can be substituted with other hard cheeses like Pecorino or Grana Padano. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you might consider using a nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy flavor, though it will be quite different.
The garlic is a key component of this dish, and while you could reduce the amount if you’re not a huge fan, it’s what gives the sauce its depth of flavor. Consider using high-quality ingredients, especially the garlic and Parmesan cheese, as they will greatly impact the final taste of your dish.
Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, you’ll need a few basic pieces of equipment. A large pot for boiling the pasta is essential, as well as a large skillet for making the sauce. A colander for draining the pasta is also necessary. These are all standard kitchen items, making this recipe accessible to anyone.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F) for potential future use, although the competitor reference suggests a stovetop method might be more applicable.
- Boil a large pot of salted water until it reaches a rolling boil, then add pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer, reducing heat to low and cooking for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the garlic cream sauce, tossing to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.
Visual Guide & Tips
As you cook, pay attention to the texture and color of your ingredients. The pasta should be al dente, still having a bit of bite to it. The garlic should be fragrant but not burnt, adding a deep aroma to your kitchen. The cream should simmer and slightly thicken, coating the pasta evenly.
When combining the pasta and sauce, make sure to toss well so that every strand of pasta is coated with the creamy garlic sauce. This will ensure that every bite is as flavorful as possible.
Pro Tips & Tricks
Achieving the perfect creaminess in your sauce is key. To do this, make sure not to overcook the cream, as it can quickly become too thick. A simmer for 2-3 minutes should be enough to slightly thicken the sauce without making it too heavy.
Preventing garlic from burning is also crucial. Keep an eye on it as it sautés, and remove it from the heat as soon as it becomes fragrant. Burnt garlic can quickly ruin the flavor of your dish.
Adding herbs for extra flavor can elevate your dish. Consider adding some basil or parsley towards the end of cooking to add a fresh note to your garlic pasta.
Serving Suggestions/Storage/Variations
Serve your 15 minute creamy garlic pasta immediately, garnished with some extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of basil if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen for later use.
For variations, consider adding some protein like cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon to make the dish more substantial. You could also add some sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
The nutritional information for this dish is as follows:
- Calories: 2500 kcal
- Protein: 55g
- Carbs: 81g
- Fat: 140g
- Sugar: 0g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about the 15 minute creamy garlic pasta recipe:
- Q: Can I use different types of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use various types of pasta for this recipe. However, shorter shapes like penne or fusilli work better with the creamy sauce than long shapes like spaghetti. - Q: Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
A: While it’s challenging to replicate the exact flavor and texture with vegan ingredients, you can try substituting the heavy cream with a non-dairy cream alternative and using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. - Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit more cream if the sauce becomes too thick.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 15 minute creamy garlic pasta recipe is a quick, delicious, and satisfying dish perfect for any night of the week. With its rich garlic flavor, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. Don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media by tagging @EvasRecipes or pinning your dish on Pinterest. Happy cooking, and I look forward to seeing your versions of this 15 minute creamy garlic pasta!
Did you make this? Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes!
15 Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F) for potential future use, although the competitor reference suggests a stovetop method might be more applicable.
- Boil a large pot of salted water until it reaches a rolling boil, then add pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer, reducing heat to low and cooking for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the garlic cream sauce, tossing to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.