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Creamy Garlic Pasta Delight

Creamy Garlic Pasta Delight

Silky spaghetti twirled in a rich garlic-cream sauce, showered with Parmesan and fresh parsley. Fast, cozy, and weeknight-friendly.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz dried spaghetti
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tsp fresh garlic, finely minced
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 0.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 cup starchy pasta water, reserved
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 0.5 tsp finely grated lemon zest optional

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until just shy of al dente.
  • Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  • Warm olive oil and melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook gently until fragrant, 1–2 minutes; do not brown.
  • Pour in chicken broth and simmer until slightly reduced, about 2–3 minutes.
  • Add heavy cream and simmer until the sauce lightly thickens, 3–4 minutes, stirring often.
  • Lower the heat. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat.
  • Remove from heat and sprinkle in Parmesan a handful at a time, tossing until glossy and smooth.
  • Splash in reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your liking.
  • Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. Finish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Variation: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or cooked chicken, or swap vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. For a brighter finish, add a squeeze of lemon before serving. Leftovers keep 2–3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or cream.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Creamy Garlic Pasta Delight flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.