Creamy parmesan garlic pasta was born in my kitchen on one of those nights when I had zero energy to cook but still craved something rich and satisfying and I remember opening the fridge and spotting leftover cream and some grated parmesan and I thought—why not turn it into a sauce and toss it with pasta? I threw in garlic, of course, because I can never skip garlic in my kitchen and the result was a creamy dream that took less than 30 minutes.

Since then, I’ve made it so many times and sometimes I add little extras like browned sausage or roasted veggies depending on my mood and it always hits that sweet spot between comfort food and easy elegance. This dish is now one of my most-requested recipes—simple, indulgent, and always a win.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

Farfalle (bowtie pasta) – The ridges and shape hold onto the creamy sauce so well.
Garlic – The flavor base that brings warmth and depth.
Heavy cream – Adds rich, smooth texture to the sauce.
Parmesan cheese – Melts into the cream to make it irresistibly cheesy and savory.
Butter – Used to sauté the garlic and add richness to the sauce.
Olive oil – Helps balance the butter and keeps things from sticking.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the pasta and sauce.
Italian sausage (optional) – I add this when I want a little protein and spice.
Fresh parsley – Sprinkled on top for color and freshness.

Tools You’ll Need

Large pot – I use this to cook the pasta to al dente perfection.
Skillet – Perfect for preparing the creamy garlic parmesan sauce.
Garlic press or knife – I use this to finely mince the garlic for even flavor.
Wooden spoon – Helps stir the sauce without scratching the pan.
Measuring cups and spoons – Keeps everything balanced and portioned.
Cheese grater – I always prefer freshly grated parmesan for best melting.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the farfalle until al dente. I reserve a little pasta water before draining—it’s perfect for adjusting the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, I melt butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. I add the minced garlic and cook it for about a minute, just until it’s fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

I pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently, then stir in the grated parmesan until it melts completely and turns smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Season and Add Sausage (Optional)

If I’m using sausage, I brown it in a separate pan or before starting the garlic. Then I stir it into the sauce at this point. I also season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

I toss the drained pasta directly into the sauce and stir everything together. If the sauce is too thick, I splash in a little reserved pasta water until it’s just right.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

To finish, I top it with a little extra parmesan and freshly chopped parsley. The pasta should be creamy, flavorful, and ready to serve hot!

Tips

When I want to add a veggie twist, I stir in some sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli. You can also use a mix of cream and milk to make it lighter. And for extra depth, a pinch of nutmeg goes surprisingly well with the creamy garlic and parmesan base—it’s subtle but makes a difference!

Ways to Serve

On its own for a cozy, meatless main dish

With a side of garlic bread for dipping into the sauce

Topped with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein

As a side dish next to steak or roasted veggies

With a crisp Caesar salad for a full Italian-style dinner

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Creamy Parmesan Garlic Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats well with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

What kind of pasta works best for Creamy Parmesan Garlic Pasta?

Farfalle is great, but penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti all work beautifully.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream in Creamy Parmesan Garlic Pasta?

You can! Just simmer it gently and consider adding a bit of flour or cream cheese to thicken it.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Pasta soon—it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl! Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy date night, it’s a sure win. Don’t forget to share how you made it your own—I’d love to hear about your version!

Happy Cooking!