Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Name: Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Weeknight Quick Meals Ideas

I love making Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta when I want a comforting meal that comes together in a flash. This dish blends the robust flavor of garlic with the creamy richness of Parmesan, making it a family favorite at our dinner table. With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, it’s perfect for those evenings when I’m short on time but still crave something satisfying. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll add it to your weekly rotation!

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:53:35.860Z

Making Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta has become a cherished tradition in my home. The combination of sautéed garlic and rich Parmesan creates a flavor that dances on the palate. I often add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added layer of freshness. A tip I’ve learned is to reserve some pasta water before draining, as it helps to create a beautiful sauce that clings to the noodles.

What I appreciate most about this recipe is how versatile it is. On some nights, I’ll toss in vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to sneak in some greens. Other times, I might add grilled chicken for extra protein. No matter how I tweak it, the creamy garlic sauce always shines through, making it a well-loved meal in our house!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Rich and savory flavor with a creamy texture
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins

Ingredient Insights

The base of this Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the pasta itself, typically spaghetti, which is perfect for holding onto the sauce. When selecting your pasta, opt for a high-quality brand, as it will affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish. You can experiment with different shapes, such as fettuccine or penne, but remember that cooking times may vary. Always check the package instructions to ensure you achieve the ideal al dente texture.

Garlic is the star flavor in this recipe, and quality truly matters. Freshly minced garlic delivers a more vibrant taste compared to pre-minced options. When sautéing, aim for a golden color rather than browning too much, which can introduce bitterness. If you’re sensitive to garlic’s intensity, consider using roasted garlic for a sweeter and mellower flavor profile that still complements the Parmesan well.

Techniques for Creamy Perfection

Achieving the perfect creamy texture with Parmesan is all about the timing and technique. When adding the cheese, make sure the skillet is not too hot to prevent the cheese from clumping. Add it on low heat while stirring continuously. If the mixture seems too thick, gradually incorporate reserved pasta water, as it contains starch that helps bind the sauce to the pasta.

For a consistently creamy sauce, remember to combine your ingredients quickly after the pasta is drained. If allowed to sit too long, the pasta will continue to cook and thicken, making it difficult to achieve that silky finish. I always time the sautéing of the garlic so it’s ready right when the pasta is cooked for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious pasta dish:

Ingredients

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

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you’re just minutes away from deliciousness!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Pour in reserved pasta water as needed. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until the pasta is well coated.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in the fridge for quick reheating.

Pro Tips

To add an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes during the sautéing step. You can also substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta can be a versatile canvas for additional flavor. Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms, right after the garlic is cooked. These additions not only enhance flavor but also contribute valuable nutrients, making the dish more well-rounded.

If you're looking for extra protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed tofu can easily elevate this dish. Simply cook them separately and fold them in once the pasta is combined with the sauce. For a comforting twist, consider serving the pasta with a side of garlic bread and a light salad for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to the pasta to revive the creamy texture, as it may thicken when cooled. Warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking any ingredients.

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can cook the pasta and garlic separately, then combine them just before serving. This method will help retain the fresh flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful meal that is still quick to assemble on busy weeknights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works well and adds a nutty flavor.

→ What can I add for protein?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be excellent additions.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian as it contains no meat, but use vegetable broth instead of water for an added flavor boost.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.