Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Name: Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Cooking

I love how quick and easy this Garlic Parmesan Pasta is to prepare! When I find myself pressed for time but craving a comforting dish, this recipe comes to the rescue. Just a handful of ingredients and about 20 minutes are all I need for a delicious meal that feels indulgent. The rich garlic flavor combined with the creaminess of the Parmesan cheese creates a fantastic dish that my whole family enjoys. It's perfect for busy weeknights or when friends drop by unexpectedly!

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:13:35.061Z

During one of those hectic evenings, I stumbled upon the perfect solution for dinner: Garlic Parmesan Pasta. The moment I started sautéing the minced garlic, the aroma filled my kitchen, making my stomach growl with anticipation. The best part? I only needed to cook the pasta for about 10 minutes!

Experimenting with the ratios of garlic to cheese led me to discover the perfect balance. I found that using freshly grated Parmesan offers a creaminess that store-bought versions simply can't match. It's a little tip that elevates the dish, making it feel like a gourmet meal, even though it’s so simple!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor combined with creamy Parmesan
Quick preparation makes it perfect for weeknights
Versatile - can be served as a main dish or a side

Perfecting the Pasta

The key to achieving the ideal texture for your Garlic Parmesan Pasta lies in cooking the spaghetti to 'al dente'. This usually means boiling it for about 8-10 minutes, but always refer to the package instructions as different pastas may vary. Al dente pasta offers a delightful bite and holds up well when mixed with the garlic oil. Overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy texture, which can be disappointing in this dish.

Don't forget to reserve that ½ cup of pasta water! It's an essential step that elevates the dish. The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta, creating a creamier consistency without the need for additional cream. If you find your sauce a bit too thick once combined, this reserved water is your best friend in achieving the desired saucy texture.

Flavorful Ingredients

Garlic is the star of this recipe and contributes not only a strong aroma but also a rich flavor profile. When sautéed, garlic becomes sweet and nutty, enhancing the overall dish. Be cautious not to overcook it, though; burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. Aim for a light golden color, which takes just 1-2 minutes over medium heat.

Parmesan cheese adds depth and a creamy finish to the pasta. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results, as pre-grated varieties tend to contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting. If you're looking to make this dish a bit lighter, you could substitute with a reduced-fat cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers, store the Garlic Parmesan Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. This method helps preserve the dish's creaminess while reinvigorating the garlic flavor.

This pasta can easily serve as either a main course or a side dish. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp for additional protein. Alternatively, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the pasta. You can also add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to enhance both nutrition and color.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful pasta dish:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Garlic Parmesan Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the garlic oil. Gradually add the reserved pasta water to help create a sauce.

Add Parmesan

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix well, ensuring every strand is coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley. Enjoy your quick and delicious Garlic Parmesan Pasta!

Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to make this dish heartier. Using fresh herbs can also enhance the overall flavor significantly.

Potential Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor profile of your Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Pecorino Romano offers a sharper and saltier kick, while a blend of mozzarella could provide an even creamier texture. Mixing cheeses can add an exciting twist to this comforting dish.

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. A teaspoon or so can elevate the dish significantly without overpowering the other flavors. Alternatively, incorporating sautéed mushrooms or cooked broccoli can bring in a hearty touch while complementing the garlic and cheese beautifully.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce ends up too thick or clumpy, the reserved pasta water can rescue it! Gradually mixing in a tablespoon at a time can help achieve a smooth and glossy consistency. This will also boost the flavor without watering it down too much.

Should you accidentally oversalt the pasta water or the dish, consider balancing it by adding a splash of lemon juice or a small amount of sugar. This can help mitigate the saltiness without significantly altering the dish's intended flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for different flavors.

→ Is it okay to use store-bought minced garlic?

While fresh garlic brings the best flavor, store-bought can be used in a pinch.

→ Can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Cool the pasta completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.