Go Back
Creamy garlic parmesan pasta dish garnished with parsley

Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

A delightful dish featuring creamy, cheesy pasta with garlic that warms the heart, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base
  • 1 box 16 oz large tube-shaped pasta (like rigatoni, penne, or ziti) Choose a pasta shape that captures the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • 3 tablespoons butter The rich, golden butter adds depth and flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic Minced, chopped from a jar, or garlic paste for a savory kick.
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour This will help thicken your sauce.
  • 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth A flavorful base that enhances the taste.
  • 1 cup whole milk Provides the creaminess.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Elevates all the flavors.
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper A subtle hint of spice.
  • 2 teaspoons dried parsley Adds color and freshness.
  • 1½ cups shredded parmesan cheese The star of the recipe, grated from a wedge.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Boil a pot of water and add a generous teaspoon of salt. Once boiling, add your large tube-shaped pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente.
  2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the flour, creating a thick paste. Whisk thoroughly for about 30 seconds.
  4. While whisking continuously, slowly pour in the chicken broth and whole milk. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens.
  5. Once thickened, take the sauce off the heat. Stir in the dried parsley and shredded parmesan cheese until melted.
  6. Drain the cooked pasta but do not rinse. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the pasta and stir to coat.
  7. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

For extra flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the sauce. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Using freshly grated parmesan yields better results than pre-packaged options.