Nothing beats a comforting plate of creamy garlic Parmesan pasta with a burst of fresh flavors. This recipe takes the classic Alfredo-style sauce up a notch with a hint of lemon and dried basil, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or an elegant dish to serve guests.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of your choice)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water, and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the Parmesan and Lemon
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
- Add the lemon juice and dried basil, stirring until the sauce begins to thicken. Adjust the consistency with the reserved pasta water if needed.
4. Toss the Pasta
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Divide the pasta into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese for an irresistible finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy
This pasta comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
2. Elegant Flavors
The combination of garlic, Parmesan, lemon, and basil creates a sophisticated dish that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare.
3. Customizable
Enhance the dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta
- Grate Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances the sauce’s creaminess.
- Don’t Overheat the Cream: Keep the heat on medium to avoid curdling the cream.
- Add a Protein: Grilled chicken or shrimp pairs beautifully with this dish.
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. For a thicker consistency, mix the milk with a bit of cornstarch.
What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine work well, but you can use any pasta you like.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can reheat leftovers with a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with its velvety sauce and fresh, zesty flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a delightful dining experience.