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Creamy Ultimate Garlic Alfredo Pasta Recipe Easy 5-Minute Homemade Dinner

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A quick and easy creamy garlic Alfredo pasta that comes together in under 20 minutes, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 g) fettuccine pasta, dried or fresh
  • 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter
  • 4 large garlic cloves, minced finely
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (about 100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon (1.5 g) salt, to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) reserved pasta cooking water

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 ounces (340 g) of fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve ½ cup (120 ml) of the pasta cooking water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, melt 4 tablespoons (60 g) of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely minced 4 garlic cloves and sauté gently for about 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Slowly pour in 1 ½ cups (360 ml) of heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer but do not boil vigorously. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Gradually stir in 1 cup (100 g) of freshly grated Parmesan cheese in small handfuls. Mix until melted and the sauce becomes silky and smooth. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  5. Add salt to taste (start with ½ teaspoon or 1.5 g) and freshly ground black pepper if desired. Stir well.
  6. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently with tongs or a pasta fork to coat each strand evenly. Add more reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed to get the sauce clinging just right.
  7. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately on warm plates.

Notes

Do not overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness; keep heat medium-low and watch closely. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Simmer cream gently without boiling to prevent separation. Add salt and pepper gradually and taste as you go. Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic alfredo pasta, creamy pasta, easy dinner, quick pasta recipe, homemade alfredo sauce, garlic pasta, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/creamy-ultimate-garlic-alfredo-pasta-recipe-easy-5-minute-homemade-dinner/