Dreamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Delight

Whipping up a delectable garlic parmesan pasta can turn an ordinary evening into a culinary celebration.

Pasta lovers appreciate simple ingredients that create magic on their plates.

Creamy, aromatic flavors dance through each perfectly coated noodle.

Parmesan cheese adds a luxurious depth that makes this dish irresistible.

You adore how quickly this meal comes together with minimal effort.

Comfort meets sophistication in just one skillet of deliciousness.

Good Pairings for Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Savor Complementary Wine Pairing: Select a crisp, light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the rich, creamy garlic Parmesan pasta, cutting through its buttery texture and enhancing the delicate flavors.
• Enhance with Fresh Herbal Salad: Prepare a zesty arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a bright, peppery contrast to the pasta's richness, adding freshness and cleansing the palate between bites.
• Craft Perfect Protein Companion: Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp on the side to introduce lean protein that complements the pasta's creamy sauce, creating a more balanced and satisfying meal.
• Boost with Garlic Bread Sidekick: Serve the recommended garlic cheese bread alongside the pasta, amplifying the garlic notes and providing a crunchy textural element that perfectly matches the soft, silky noodles.

Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe Options

• Gluten-Free Pasta Swap: Replace angel hair pasta with gluten-free rice noodles or chickpea pasta for those with gluten sensitivities, maintaining the same creamy garlic Parmesan flavor profile.
• Vegan Creamy Alternative: Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based butter, nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and use vegetable broth to create a similar rich, savory sauce that's completely dairy-free.
• Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Version: Swap traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles, reducing carbohydrates while keeping the delicious garlic and Parmesan seasonings intact for a lighter meal option.
• Protein-Packed Variation: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to transform the pasta into a more substantial main course, boosting protein content and creating a more filling dinner solution.

FAQs

• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Angel hair pasta is ideal because it cooks quickly and absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly. Its delicate texture allows for even coating and quick preparation.

• Can I use dried or fresh parsley?

Both work well. Fresh parsley provides a brighter flavor and vibrant color, while dried parsley is convenient and still adds a nice herbal touch to the dish.

• How do I prevent the pasta from becoming sticky?

Stir occasionally while cooking and ensure you’re using enough liquid. The chicken broth and milk help prevent clumping, and using kitchen tongs to manage the noodles helps distribute them evenly.

• Is it necessary to use chicken broth?

Chicken broth adds depth of flavor, but you can substitute with vegetable broth or water if needed. However, the broth contributes to the overall richness of the sauce, so try to use it if possible.

What Makes Garlic Parmesan Pasta Extra Savory

• Quick and Simple Cooking: Whip up this delicious garlic Parmesan pasta with minimal effort and basic kitchen skills, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu meal preparations.
• Customizable Comfort Food: Easily adapt the recipe by adding proteins like chicken or shrimp, or customize with your favorite herbs and seasonings to suit personal taste preferences.
• One-Skillet Dish: Minimize kitchen cleanup with this single-pan meal that combines all ingredients in one skillet, making cooking and washing up a breeze for home cooks of all levels.
• Creamy Flavor Explosion: Experience a rich, indulgent sauce that transforms simple angel hair pasta into a restaurant-worthy dish packed with garlic and Parmesan cheese goodness.

Garlic Parmesan Pasta Ingredient List

• Angel Hair Pasta: Delicate, thin pasta that cooks quickly.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and flavorful cheese that adds richness.
• Chicken Broth: Savory liquid that provides depth of flavor.
• Butter: Creamy ingredient that adds smoothness to the sauce.
• Milk: Creates a silky and light sauce base.

• Garlic: Aromatic and pungent flavor enhancer.
• Seasoning Mix: Optional blend to boost overall taste.

• Fresh Parsley: Bright green herb for color and fresh flavor.

Step-by-Step Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Prepare Skillet and Butter

Grab a large skillet and melt butter over medium heat, creating a golden base for your delicious pasta adventure.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

Toss in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, letting the kitchen fill with an irresistible aroma that will make everyone’s mouth water.

Step 3: Create Flavorful Liquid Base

Pour in chicken broth and optional seasoning mix, then slowly add milk while stirring.

This creates a creamy foundation for your pasta.

Step 4: Bring to Boiling Point

Increase heat and bring the liquid mixture to a rolling boil, preparing for the pasta’s grand entrance.

Step 5: Add Pasta Noodles

Drop angel hair pasta into the skillet.

You can break noodles in half or use kitchen tongs to gently twist them into the bubbling liquid as they soften.

Step 6: Simmer and Stir

Let pasta simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking together.

Keep an eye on those delicate strands!

Step 7: Lower Heat and Finish

Reduce heat to low and add an extra tablespoon of butter, tossing to coat the pasta beautifully.

Step 8: Incorporate Parmesan

Gradually sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and wonderfully combined.

Step 9: Let Sauce Develop

Allow the sauce to rest briefly.

It will naturally thicken and the pasta will absorb more of the creamy goodness.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve alongside some mouthwatering Garlic Bread with Cheese.

Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

Garlic Parmesan Pasta Cooking Tips

• Break angel hair noodles in half or use kitchen tongs to gently twist them into the skillet, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticky strands.
• Let Parmesan cheese sit at room temperature before adding to create a smoother, more even melt and prevent clumping in the sauce.
• Don't worry about the initial thin sauce – it naturally thickens as it stands and the pasta absorbs liquid, creating a perfectly creamy texture.
• Set a timer when cooking angel hair pasta to avoid overcooking, as these delicate noodles can quickly become mushy and lose their ideal texture.
• Enhance the dish by sprinkling fresh parsley on top and serving alongside garlic cheese bread for a complete and delicious meal experience.

How to Store and Reheat Parmesan Pasta

• Store leftover pasta in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth and maintain texture.
• Consume refrigerated pasta within 3-4 days for best quality. Cover tightly to prevent the pasta from absorbing other food odors.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore moisture. Stir gently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Microwaving can make pasta dry and rubbery. If using a microwave, add a little liquid and cover with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture.

Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Garlic parmesan pasta brings Italian comfort directly to your kitchen with its rich, creamy sauce and aromatic herbs. Hungry diners will savor each twirled bite of this simple yet elegant dish that speaks volumes about classic Mediterranean cooking.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) angel hair pasta
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) milk

Cheese and Dairy:

• 1/2 cup (50 grams) parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 3 tablespoons (45 grams) butter, divided

Aromatics and Garnish:

• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, to garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare all ingredients and kitchen tools before initiating the cooking process for smooth execution.
2. Select a generously sized skillet that will accommodate the pasta and sauce comfortably.
3. Carefully grate the Parmesan cheese and allow it to reach ambient temperature for optimal melting and integration.
4. Place skillet on medium heat and introduce butter, allowing it to melt smoothly and evenly.
5. Incorporate finely minced garlic into the melted butter, releasing its aromatic essence while stirring periodically to prevent burning.
6. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, complementing the garlic and butter mixture with additional flavor depth.
7. Gradually stream milk into the brewing sauce, creating a creamy foundation and maintaining consistent stirring to prevent separation.
8. Elevate the temperature until the liquid reaches a gentle boil, signaling readiness for pasta incorporation.
9. Introduce angel hair pasta to the skillet, strategically breaking noodles if necessary for even cooking and easier manipulation.
10. Utilize kitchen tongs to delicately submerge and twist pasta into the simmering liquid, ensuring comprehensive coating.
11. Maintain a gentle simmer for approximately 4-5 minutes, intermittently stirring to prevent noodle clustering.
12. Reduce heat to low, allowing the sauce to harmonize and thicken naturally.
13. Introduce an additional butter portion, gently tossing to create a luxurious, glossy pasta coating.
14. Progressively sprinkle Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to achieve a seamless, velvety consistency.
15. Allow the sauce to rest momentarily, recognizing it will naturally thicken and the pasta will continue absorbing liquid.
16. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve alongside complementary garlic cheese bread for a complete culinary experience.

Notes

• Timing is crucial when cooking angel hair pasta, as it can quickly become mushy and clump together.
• Grate Parmesan cheese ahead of time and let it reach room temperature for smoother melting and better integration into the sauce.
• Break pasta noodles in half or use kitchen tongs to gently twist them into the skillet for easier cooking and more even heat distribution.
• The sauce naturally thickens as it cools, with pasta continuing to absorb liquid, creating a creamier texture over time.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 40mg