How to Make Creamy Garlic and Cheese Pasta

If you're like me, there are days when you crave something comforting, something rich in flavor but easy to prepare. You want the type of dish that fills you up and makes you feel good without spending hours in the kitchen. And for those moments, creamy garlic and cheese pasta is the answer.

Garlic isn’t just a powerhouse of flavor; it’s also packed with health benefits, from boosting immunity to supporting heart health. And when paired with buttery cheese and a luscious, velvety sauce, it transforms into a meal that’s both indulgent and nourishing. The first time I made this, I was blown away by how perfectly the garlic infused into the creamy sauce, coating every strand of pasta like a dream. Now, it’s a go-to comfort dish in my kitchen—and soon, it’ll be in yours, too! Ready to dig into the details? Let’s go!

How to Make a Creamy Garlic and Cheese Pasta

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• • 1 pound spaghetti (or any pasta shape you prefer)
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons cream cheese
  • 2 teaspoons dried parsley
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta of your choice in salted boiling water according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a heat-resistant strainer, saving a bit of the cooking water for later. This will help adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the crushed garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning. This will infuse the butter with the aromatic garlic flavor, creating a base for your creamy sauce.

3. Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and whisk continuously for about 1 minute with a balloon whisk. This will help thicken the sauce. Next, slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Afterward, add the milk and heavy cream. Stir the mixture constantly until it begins to simmer and thicken slightly. This should take around 5-7 minutes.

4. Once the sauce has thickened, it’s time to make it extra creamy! Add the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Stir well until the cheeses are fully melted, and the sauce is smooth and velvety. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta gently, making sure each strand is coated with the creamy, cheesy goodness. If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

6. Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from the heat and serve the creamy garlic and cheese pasta immediately. Garnish with extra parsley or freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a burst of flavor and color. Serve it upwith a side of garlic bread, a green salad, or your favorite protein, and enjoy!

Tips and Variations for the Perfect Creamy Garlic and Cheese Pasta

• If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, you can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers to the sauce. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the garlic at the beginning and reserve them until the pasta is added to the sauce. 
• For a more filling dish, you can incorporate protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon. Slice the chicken breast into strips and toss it in with the pasta, or sauté the nutritious shrimp in a bit of olive oil and garlic for added flavor.
• If you’re a fan of spicy food, feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your creamy garlic sauce. This will add a delightful kick and balance the richness of the cheese.
• To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply swap out the dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives. Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk, and opt for a dairy-free cream cheese and Parmesan substitute. You can even use vegan butter to replace the regular butter.

Health Benefits of Creamy Garlic and Cheese Pasta

While this creamy garlic and cheese pasta is undeniably indulgent, it can still be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Garlic, a key ingredient in this recipe, is known for its numerous health benefits. It contains antioxidants that support immune function and has been shown to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

The Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses provide calcium and protein, which are essential for strong bones and muscle repair. The heavy cream adds richness, but using it in moderation can still fit into a healthy diet.

To make this dish even healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta, adding more vegetables, or opting for a lighter cream alternative. Making small ingredient adjustments can create a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.

Make Your Creamy Garlic and Cheese Pasta Today!

This creamy garlic and cheese pasta has everything you could want in a meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality pasta dish right in your own kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite veggies, proteins, or spices to make it your own.

Next time you’re craving comfort food, make this creamy garlic and cheese pasta. You’ll love how easy it is to makeand how delicious it tastes. Trust me, it’s one of those dishes that will become a regular in your meal rotation!

Kitchen Tools You Need for This Recipe

• Large Skillet for making the creamy sauce and combining it with the pasta.
• Garlic Press for crushing garlic quickly and efficiently.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons for accurate proportions of ingredients.
• Tongs for easily tossing the pasta in the sauce without making a mess.
• Grater for freshly grating the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic and Cheese Pasta

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! You can use any type of pasta that you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta. The creamy sauce will cling beautifully to any shape.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

While pasta is best served fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it in a skillet with a little bit of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

To make the sauce thicker, simply let it cook longer. If you want a thinner sauce, add more milk or chicken broth to adjust the consistency.

Can I make this dish without cream?

Yes! You can use whole milk or a lighter cream alternative if you want to reduce the richness of the sauce.

What can I serve with this creamy garlic and cheese pasta?

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.