Description
This creamy garlic pasta recipe delivers a luscious, cheesy sauce that perfectly coats tender linguine. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner combining simple ingredients like garlic, cream, and parmesan for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked linguine pasta
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon flour
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta once done.
- Make a Roux: While the pasta is nearing completion, melt the butter over medium-high heat in a skillet. Stir in the flour and cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Garlic and Broth: Stir in the minced garlic and chicken broth, allowing the mixture to simmer gently for about one minute to meld the flavors.
- Incorporate Cream: Whisk in the heavy cream and let the sauce cook for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Finish the Sauce: Mix in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss and Serve: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it thoroughly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Do not overcook the pasta; al dente texture works best for this dish.
- If you want a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Freshly grated parmesan melts better than pre-grated varieties.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the sauce a subtle kick.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
