Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This creamy garlic Parmesan pasta has saved many of my weeknight dinners with its simplicity and incredible flavor. Made in just one pot, this angel hair pasta cooks directly in a rich, buttery sauce that becomes irresistibly creamy as it thickens.

I first created this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed something comforting but quick. It has since become my family's most requested pasta dish, especially when we're craving restaurant-quality food without the restaurant prices.

Ingredients

• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for the best melting quality and flavor
• Butter: Creates the rich base for the sauce
• Fresh garlic: Minced just before cooking for maximum aromatic impact
• Chicken broth: Provides depth of flavor that water alone cannot match
• Milk: Creates creaminess without requiring heavy cream
• Angel hair pasta: Cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors beautifully
• Fresh parsley: Adds color and a bright finish
• Optional seasonings: Like onion powder, oregano, thyme, and parsley for added dimension

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Prepare the Cheese:

Grate the Parmesan cheese and allow it to come to room temperature. This ensures it will melt smoothly into the sauce without clumping.

Create the Flavor Base:

Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it begins to foam slightly. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes stirring occasionally until fragrant but not browned. This builds the aromatic foundation for the entire dish.

Build the Sauce:

Add chicken broth and any optional seasonings to the skillet. Then slowly pour in the milk while stirring to create a smooth base. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil which will help the pasta cook evenly.

Cook the Pasta:

Add the angel hair pasta to the simmering liquid. If the noodles are too long for your pan allow them to soften slightly in the hot liquid before using tongs to gently curve them into a circular formation. Let the pasta simmer for 4-5 minutes stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finish with Richness:

Reduce heat to low and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pasta tossing to coat each strand with the melting butter. This adds a final touch of richness and glossiness to the dish.

Incorporate the Cheese:

Gradually sprinkle in the room temperature Parmesan cheese while continuously stirring. This gradual approach prevents clumping and creates a smooth velvety sauce that coats each strand of pasta.

I discovered the secret to this recipe was using real Parmesan cheese rather than the shelf-stable versions. My grandmother always insisted on using the authentic stuff grated right before cooking. The first time I followed her advice rather than taking a shortcut I was amazed at how much creamier and more flavorful the final dish became.

Variations to Try

This garlic Parmesan pasta welcomes many additions depending on what you have available. My family particularly enjoys adding grilled chicken slices, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. For a little heat, red pepper flakes sprinkled on top bring a welcome contrast to the creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken considerably when chilled. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and heat gently on the stovetop rather than in the microwave for the best texture. Stir frequently while reheating to redistribute the sauce evenly.

Make Ahead Tips

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time to speed up dinner. Grate the cheese, mince the garlic, and measure out other ingredients earlier in the day. Store each component separately in the refrigerator, then bring everything to room temperature before cooking for the smoothest results.

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This pasta is a weeknight staple in my kitchen now, offering maximum flavor with minimal effort. Even better, it's endlessly adaptable to whatever ingredients I have on hand!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the pasta doesn't stick?

Stir the noodles occasionally while they cook, and use a skillet large enough to allow adequate space for the pasta to move around.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute angel hair pasta with other types, but consider adjusting the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

→ What is the best way to prevent clumpy sauce?

Ensure consistent stirring while adding the Parmesan cheese gradually, and use room temperature cheese for better blending.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth or water for a vegetarian version.

→ What can I pair with this dish?

This pasta pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.