Creamy Garlic Basil Pasta for Quick Weeknight Meals

🔥 KITCHEN FINDS

3 Clever Kitchen Gadgets Worth Checking Out

These handy little gadgets make cooking easier — and they're actually pretty cool.

This Kitchen Gadget Sprays AND Pours Oil

One bottle for spraying, pouring and keeping cooking oil close at hand.

Check It Out on Amazon →

This Weird Little Tool Slices Watermelon for You

Slice, cube and grab watermelon with one ridiculously simple little gadget.

Check It Out on Amazon →

Mix & Pour Pancake Batter Without the Mess

Mix the batter right in the bottle, then squeeze it straight onto the griddle.

Check It Out on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Creamy Garlic Basil Pasta is the perfect dish for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet quick to prepare. This pasta dish combines tender noodles with a luscious, creamy garlic sauce, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese that brings everything together in a delightful way. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite for both family dinners and impressing last-minute guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy garlic basil pasta is not only rich and flavorful but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it ideal for hectic evenings. It’s a one-pot wonder that doesn’t compromise on taste, ensuring you get a delicious meal without the fuss.

• Quick to prepare in about 30 minutes.
• Rich, creamy sauce that clings to every noodle.
• Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor.
• Customizable with your favorite proteins or veggies.
• Perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick

How to Make Creamy Garlic Basil Pasta

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the cream slightly thickens.
4. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and continue to mix until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor.
• Don’t rush the simmering process; allowing the cream to thicken properly will enhance the sauce.
• Adjust the amount of basil based on your preference for freshness.
• For a richer flavor, try using freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-grated.

Easy Variations

• Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for a heartier meal.
• Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Incorporate a splash of white wine into the sauce for a depth of flavor.
• Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.

What to Serve With It

• A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for dipping.
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
• A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating

📚 RECIPE LOVER FINDS

Love Trying New Recipes? Check These Out

Save your favorites, discover something different, or make meal planning a whole lot easier.

❤️ Love This Recipe? Save Your Favorites

Keep all those recipes you actually want to make again together in your own recipe book.

See It on Amazon →

🔥 Yep, Snoop Dogg Has a Cookbook

From Crook to Cook brings Snoop's spin to comfort food, classics and seriously fun recipes.

Check It Out on Amazon →

🥗 100+ Meals You Can Make Ahead

Simple make-ahead recipes and quick-assembly meals for making the week way easier.

See It on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to help loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pasta gummy.

Recipe Card