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pasta dinner recipes

pasta dinner recipes

A rich and comforting pasta dish featuring tender noodles coated in a silky garlic cream sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners, quick weeknight meals, or sharing at gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Base
  • 12 oz pasta penne, fusilli, or spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon salt for boiling water
  • Filling Creamy Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • Topping
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: red pepper flakes

Method
 

  1. Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and let it gently simmer until slightly thickened.
  4. Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved water. Toss until evenly coated.
  6. Top with parsley, extra Parmesan, and optional chili flakes. Let sit for 1–2 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
  • Swap cream with milk for a lighter version (less rich).
  • Freshly grated cheese melts better and improves texture.
  • You can add chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for variation.