There’s something magical about a creamy garlic pasta that comes together in just 15 minutes. The silky, flavorful sauce clings to every strand of pasta, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet is deceptively simple to prepare.
I discovered this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed a quick meal without sacrificing flavor. Now, it’s my go-to for those hectic days when time is short but comfort food is a must. Ready to make your next favorite dinner? Let’s dive in.
Why You’ll Love This 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta
Get ready to fall head over heels for this lightning-fast and luxurious pasta dish. It’s everything you want in a dinner: quick, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying.
First off, you can’t beat the time factor. This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights when you’re juggling a million things but still want a homemade meal.
The rich, garlicky sauce is a flavor bomb. Made with pantry staples, it packs a punch without overwhelming the delicate pasta. Each bite is a perfect balance of creaminess and bold garlic flavor.
It’s budget-friendly and uses simple, accessible ingredients. You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen, which means no extra trips to the store.
Finally, it’s endlessly adaptable. Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, toss in some veggies, or keep it simple and vegetarian. The choice is yours, and the results are always delicious.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so special.
Ingredients Notes

This recipe relies on a few key ingredients to deliver big flavor in little time. Every element is essential, and here’s why they work so well together.
The pasta is the star of the show. Spaghetti or linguine works best for that classic creamy texture, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Short shapes like penne or fusilli are great for catching the sauce in their ridges.
The sauce starts with garlic – lots of it! Freshly minced garlic is key here, as it infuses the entire dish with its signature aroma and flavor. Don’t skimp on this ingredient; it’s the backbone of the recipe.
Heavy cream provides the base for the sauce. Its richness creates a luxurious texture that clings beautifully to the pasta. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the results won’t be quite as decadent.
A touch of Parmesan cheese brings depth and a salty, nutty finish. Be sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results, as pre-shredded varieties often don’t melt as smoothly.
You’ll also need a bit of butter and olive oil to sauté the garlic and start the sauce. This combination adds flavor and ensures the garlic doesn’t burn.
Finally, a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) adds just a hint of heat, perfectly balancing the creamy elements of the dish.
Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
How To Make This 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta

This dish is as easy as it is delicious. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce later.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and a drizzle of olive oil, letting them melt together. Toss in your minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can become bitter.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic. Let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes, thickening slightly. If you’re using red pepper flakes, this is the time to sprinkle them in.
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat every strand, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and meld into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
Storage Options
While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored for later. Transfer any extra pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Heat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating.
Unfortunately, this dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream-based sauce. However, with how quickly it comes together, you probably won’t have much left to store!
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
- Incorporate veggies: Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli make excellent additions.
- Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
- Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for a kick of heat.
- Experiment with pasta: Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
No matter how you customize it, this creamy garlic pasta is sure to be a hit. Get creative and make it your own!
Print15 Minute Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
This 15-minute creamy garlic pasta recipe delivers rich and creamy flavor with a burst of garlic in every bite. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, this dish is easy to prepare with simple ingredients. A must-try for pasta lovers looking for a comforting meal!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
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