Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Introducing Patricia’s Go-To Meal
- Why This Dish is the King of Quick Dinners
- Mastering the Garlic and Parmesan Sauce
- Elevate Your Weeknight with This Quick and Easy Pasta Recipes Hack
- Perfect Pairings for Your Pasta Dinner Recipes Easy Meal
- More Quick Fixes on Patricia Universe
- Recipe
- Notes & Tips
Key Takeaways
- A comforting, classic pasta dish ready in under 30 minutes.
- Uses pantry staples like butter, heavy cream, and parmesan.
- The secret lies in reserving the pasta water for perfect sauce consistency.
- Ideal for a quick meal when time is short.
Introducing Patricia’s Go-To Meal
Welcome to Patricia Universe! I’m Patricia, and if there is one dish I recommend for busy weeknights, it’s this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Finding truly fantastic easy pasta recipes that don’t compromise on flavor is a victory in my kitchen, and this one is a champion. When I first developed this recipe for Patricia Universe, I wanted something decadent yet fast, proving that easy pasta recipes can still feel like a gourmet indulgence. It’s comforting, aromatic (thanks to plenty of fresh garlic), and unbelievably satisfying.
Why This Dish is the King of Quick Dinners
This particular dish stands out because it delivers on both speed and depth of flavor. It achieves that rich, velvety consistency essential for truly excellent creamy pasta easy recipes without demanding hours of simmering. You simply cook your noodles, whip up the quick sauce, and combine. It’s so simple that it qualifies as an easy dinner recipes quick simple option for those nights when the thought of complex cooking is just too much.
Mastering the Garlic and Parmesan Sauce
The secret to the depth in this sauce lies in the ratio of butter and garlic—it sets the aromatic foundation. Don’t skimp on the fresh grating of the parmesan cheese either; using the pre-shredded stuff can lead to a gritty texture because of the anti-caking agents they add. Always finish the sauce by gradually incorporating that quality, freshly grated cheese to ensure that luxurious, silky finish. This simple technique is why this is such a reliable meal.
Elevate Your Weeknight with This Quick and Easy Pasta Recipes Hack
One of the most important tips I offer for successful quick and easy pasta recipes is the pasta water trick. When you drain your cooked noodles, always reserve about half a cup of the starchy, flavorful water. If your sauce becomes too thick or heavy after adding the cheese and pasta, a splash of that reserved water is the perfect emulsifier. It thins the sauce while helping it adhere beautifully to every strand of pasta, turning a good meal into a great one. This recipe is genuinely achievable, even using easy recipes with few ingredients from your pantry.
Perfect Pairings for Your Pasta Dinner Recipes Easy Meal
While this pasta dinner recipes easy option is fantastic on its own, it plays well with others! If I have a little extra time (maybe 10 minutes), I love serving this alongside roasted asparagus or a fresh, crisp side salad. If you want to transform this into a heartier meal, grilling some shrimp or chicken is a great addition. This whole process ensures you have a satisfying quick meal that feels substantial without the effort of traditional comfort food. This recipe is a perfect easy weeknight dinner recipes addition.
More Quick Fixes on Patricia Universe
If you loved this easy pasta recipes creation, be sure to explore more fast and delicious options over at Patricia Universe. We specialize in simple, flavorful cooking that respects your busy schedule. Happy cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Pasta: The Ultimate Easy Pasta Recipes for Weeknight Dinner
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 lb fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguine
- Salt for pasta water
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups heavy cream or half-and-half (or milk/broth blend for lighter)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, if using milk/half-and-half)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Make the Sauce
- While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not burn the garlic.
- Pour in the heavy cream (or desired liquid base) and chicken broth (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, then reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combine and Serve
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving immediately.
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