Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with a Flavorful Twist

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that combines rich, velvety sauce with bold garlic flavors and a hint of brightness from lemon. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting yet elegant, this recipe is easy to make and delivers restaurant-quality taste. With the added twist of fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon, it’s a pasta dish that feels fresh and satisfying every time!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best results)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente .
2. Drain the pasta, reserving about ¼ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat .
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute , stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
2. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese , lemon juice , and dried basil . Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes smooth and creamy (about 3–5 minutes ).
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness with a zesty lemon twist!

Tips for Success

• Pasta Variations: Swap spaghetti for linguine, fettuccine, or even penne if preferred.
• Cheese Options: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture—pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
• Add Protein: Boost this dish by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra heartiness.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. The rich, velvety sauce is infused with garlic and Parmesan for a savory base, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing tang that brightens the dish. The dried basil provides an aromatic touch, and the fresh basil garnish ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick dinner or dressing it up for guests, this pasta is sure to impress. Dive into this creamy, flavorful masterpiece and savor every bite!