Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Name: Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Flavor Fix

I love whipping up a delicious meal that doesn’t take a lot of time or effort, and this Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta hits the mark! With just a handful of simple ingredients, I can create a creamy, cheesy dish that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. The garlic brings a lovely aromatic flavor, while the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese adds a nutty depth that elevates each bite. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-28T05:25:36.042Z

When I first tried making this garlic Parmesan pasta at home, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. I was skeptical about achieving that creamy texture with minimal ingredients, but using a mix of pasta water and cheese created the perfect emulsion. It was so much better than anything from a box!

The true secret is in the garlic—sautéing it just enough to soften but not brown keeps the flavor bright. The combination of fresh herbs like parsley or basil at the end adds a pop of color and freshness that takes this dish to another level.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy, comforting sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta
Quick, 20-minute meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights
Mouthwatering aroma of garlic that fills the kitchen

Ingredient Insights

The backbone of this Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta lies in its few but powerful ingredients. Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, known for its complex flavor profile, not only adds richness but also enhances the umami aspect of the dish. When selecting cheese, ensure it’s freshly grated for optimal melting and flavor. I recommend avoiding pre-grated options since they often contain anti-caking agents that hinder the creamy consistency we aim for in this pasta.

Butter plays a crucial role in the sauce, contributing to its silky texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness, which is particularly important when combining with cheese. As the butter melts and combines with the garlic, it creates a flavorful aromatic base. Cooking the garlic until it's just fragrant—about 1-2 minutes—prevents it from becoming bitter, which can ruin the overall flavor profile.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the spaghetti, aim for al dente texture, which means the pasta should have a slight bite to it. This is important as it will continue to soften slightly when combined with the sauce. Reserve some of the pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid is a secret weapon in achieving a creamy sauce that coats each strand beautifully. I recommend reserving at least 1 cup, but you may need less, depending on your desired consistency.

Combining the pasta with the garlic and cheese mixture should be done over low heat. This allows the cheese to melt gently without clumping. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add in more pasta water while stirring. Keep an eye on the visual cue of a smooth, glossy sauce; this indicates the ingredients are well integrated and ready to serve.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious pasta dish!

Ingredients

8 ounces spaghetti
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Have everything ready? Let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Sauté Garlic

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant but not browned.

Combine Pasta and Cheese

Add the drained spaghetti back to the pot with the garlic. Gradually stir in the grated cheese along with reserved pasta water, mixing until you achieve a creamy consistency. Add more water if necessary.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional cheese, then serve immediately.

Enjoy your homemade garlic Parmesan pasta with a side salad or bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Experiment with different types of pasta and cheeses to customize this dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated dining experience, consider tossing in some sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or asparagus, into the pasta at the final mixing stage. Their addition not only enhances nutrition but also adds color and texture—vibrant greens beautifully counterbalance the rich, cheesy pasta. Another great option is to incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein, making it a heartier meal.

A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta dish. A mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon juice can provide a refreshing contrast. Additionally, serving this dish with warm, crusty bread is an excellent way to embrace all the creamy sauce on your plate, making for a deliciously satisfying dinner.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This pasta dish is best enjoyed freshly made, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating can be tricky since the sauce may thicken. To bring it back to life, heat it gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to restore creaminess. Stir continuously to ensure even heating without scorching.

If you’re looking to prepare this meal in advance, consider cooking the pasta and sautéing the garlic and butter ahead of time. You can then combine everything 10-15 minutes before serving. This not only saves time, but it also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just make sure to keep the pasta lightly coated in oil or water to prevent sticking during storage.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pasta ahead of time and reheat it, adding a little extra pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

→ What can I substitute for Parmigiano-Reggiano?

You can use Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or even a mix of hard cheese for a different flavor profile.

→ Is there a way to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the pasta with a vegan variety, use vegan butter, and nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese replacement instead of Parmesan.

→ What are some good add-ins for this pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.