3 Clever Kitchen Gadgets Worth Checking Out
These handy little gadgets make cooking easier — and they're actually pretty cool.
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious weeknight dinner, this creamy herb pasta with garlic and parmesan is the perfect solution. It combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the freshness of herbs, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels special any day of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy herb pasta is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and fresh herbs creates a delightful sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your pantry staples.
- Quick to prepare in under 30 minutes.
- Rich, creamy texture that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Uses fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
- Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: additional grated parmesan for serving
How to Make Creamy Herb Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Incorporate the cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the chopped basil and parsley, mixing well to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
Love Trying New Recipes? Check These Out
Save your favorites, discover something different, or make meal planning a whole lot easier.
To ensure your creamy herb pasta turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce with the reserved pasta water as needed.
- Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables for a heartier meal.
Easy Variations
- Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
- Incorporate a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
What to Serve With It
This creamy herb pasta pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread for a classic touch.
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover creamy herb pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: additional grated parmesan for serving
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Incorporate the cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the chopped basil and parsley, mixing well to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.
Notes: For a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Enjoy your meal!
