Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Garlic Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and cheese with tender pasta. It’s easy to prepare and requires only a few ingredients, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The creamy texture and bold seasonings create comfort in every bite, making it a family favorite.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients:
- Tagliatelle pasta
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Onions, slow-cooked
- Rich tomato paste
- Bold seasoning (e.g., salt, pepper, Italian herbs)
- Melty cheese (e.g., mozzarella or Parmesan)
- Cream (optional for creaminess)
Directions:
- Cook the tagliatelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add slow-cooked onions and cook until they are soft and caramelized.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the rich tomato paste and bold seasonings. Cook for a few minutes to combine flavors.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well.
- Stir in the melted cheese until fully incorporated. If desired, add cream for extra richness.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Pasta
Serve Creamy Garlic Pasta warm, straight from the skillet. You can top it with extra cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Garlic Pasta
If you have leftovers, store Creamy Garlic Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help revive the creaminess.
Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to the pasta.
- Make sure not to overcook the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Just sauté it until fragrant.
- Experiment with different types of cheese to find what you love best.
Variation
You can make a vegan version of Creamy Garlic Pasta by using plant-based cheese and cream. You can also substitute whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Creamy Garlic Pasta stores well in the fridge and can be reheated easily. Just keep the cheese and cream added after reheating for the best texture.
3. What if I don’t have tomato paste?
You can use crushed tomatoes instead of tomato paste. Just cook them down a bit longer to thicken the sauce.
Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and cheese with tender pasta, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz tagliatelle pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, slow-cooked
- 2 tbsp rich tomato paste
- 1 tsp bold seasoning (e.g., salt, pepper, Italian herbs)
- 1 cup melty cheese (e.g., mozzarella or Parmesan)
- 1/2 cup cream (optional for creaminess)
Instructions
- Cook the tagliatelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add slow-cooked onions and cook until soft and caramelized.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the rich tomato paste and bold seasonings. Cook for a few minutes to combine flavors.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well.
- Stir in the melted cheese until fully incorporated. If desired, add cream for extra richness.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to the pasta. Experiment with different types of cheese to find the one you love best.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
