Name: Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1/2 pound Linguine pasta; 2 tablespoons Salted butter; 1/4 cup Heavy cream; 1/2 clove Garlic, finely minced ((I used a microplane)); Lots of salt & pepper to taste; 1/2 cup Reserved cooking liquid from pasta; 3/4 cup Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano ((use the real stuff!)); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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The Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta is one of those dishes that brings warmth and comfort to the heart and soul. I still remember the first time I made it; the aroma of melting butter and garlic wafting through my kitchen was simply irresistible. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted to whip up something quick yet delicious. As I tossed the freshly cooked linguine with creamy heavy cream and grated Parmesan, I knew I was onto something special. This dish has since become a staple in my home, not just because it’s easy to prepare, but because it feels like a hug in a bowl.

What I love most about the Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta is its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients or complex techniques to make it shine. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a chef, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen. The key players in this recipe—the linguine, butter, and of course, the Parmesan—come together to create a luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to each strand of pasta. When I serve it, I often sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Whether you’re cooking for friends or enjoying a quiet dinner for one, this dish never fails to impress. I still find it hard to believe how something so uncomplicated can taste so gourmet! I encourage you to give it a try; it might just become your new favorite weeknight go-to.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Large Pot, Grater

Why This Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta Shines

Unmatched Flavor

The Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta stands out for its incredible depth of flavor. The rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to replicate. Each bite is creamy and satisfying, leaving you wanting more.

Quick and Easy

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With a total cooking time of just fifteen minutes, you can go from pantry to plate in no time. It’s a lifesaver when you’re short on time yet crave something comforting and delicious.

Versatile Dish

One of the best things about the Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Add in vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for a fresh twist, or include cooked shrimp for added protein. The possibilities are endless!

Kid-Friendly

This dish is an instant hit with kids. The creamy, cheesy sauce appeals to even the pickiest eaters, and you can sneak in some veggies without them even noticing. It’s a great way to get those nutrients in while still serving up something they’ll love.

Perfect for Entertaining

Impress your guests with this elegant yet simple dish. Serve it as a main course alongside a crisp salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal. The Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta is sure to be a conversation starter!

Comfort Food Appeal

There’s something inherently comforting about a bowl of pasta. The warm, creamy sauce hugs each strand of linguine, making it the ultimate comfort food. Whether it’s a rainy day or you’re feeling under the weather, this dish is sure to lift your spirits.

Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta Shopping List

When it comes to creating the perfect Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta, the ingredients are truly the stars of the show. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the rich flavors that make this dish so appealing. The combination of linguine, butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan harmonizes beautifully, resulting in a creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Let’s dive into the essential ingredients that make this dish a winner.

Linguine pasta – 1/2 pound: This long, flat pasta is perfect for capturing the creamy sauce, making each bite delicious.
Salted butter – 2 tablespoons: Adds richness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
Heavy cream – 1/4 cup: Creates that luxurious texture in the sauce.

Garlic – 1/2 clove, finely minced: Provides a subtle yet essential flavor that elevates the dish.
Salt and pepper – to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
Reserved cooking liquid from pasta – 1/2 cup: Helps adjust the sauce consistency.

Parmesan cheese – 3/4 cup, freshly grated: The star ingredient that gives the dish its signature flavor.
Fresh parsley – for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Putting Together Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta

Making the Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta is a straightforward process that anyone can master. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Let’s walk through the steps together!

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once you see those rolling bubbles, generously sprinkle in a good amount of salt. This is crucial for flavoring the linguine.
Add the linguine to the boiling water. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until al dente, typically around eight to ten minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it has a slight bite to it.
When the linguine is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid, then drain the rest. Don’t rinse it, as you want that lovely starch to help the sauce adhere.

Return the drained linguine to the hot pot. Now it’s time to create the magic! Add in the butter and allow it to melt gently.
Next, pour in the heavy cream and add the minced garlic, stirring everything together. This is where the dish starts to come alive.
Season generously with salt and pepper according to your taste. Allow this mixture to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld.

Now, sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan. Stir until it begins to melt and forms a creamy sauce. If it looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Once the sauce is well combined and smooth, taste it and adjust the seasonings if necessary. This is your chance to make it just right!
Transfer the Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta to a serving platter. If you’d like, garnish with additional Parmesan and some chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

Things Worth Knowing

Water Salting: Always remember to salt your pasta water generously. It’s your first opportunity to impart flavor.
Al Dente Texture: For the best results, aim for al dente pasta to maintain a firm texture that holds up in the sauce.
Cheese Quality: Use freshly grated Parmesan, as pre-grated varieties often lack the rich taste and texture needed for this dish.

Adjust Consistency: Don’t hesitate to use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness; it adds flavor and helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for three to five days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of the Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta lies in its adaptability. Here are some tips to help you personalize this recipe and make it truly your own.

Add Vegetables: Mix in sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
Protein Boost: Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the freshness of the dish.

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute traditional linguine with gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences.
Extra Creaminess: For a creamier dish, increase the amount of heavy cream or add a dollop of cream cheese.

How to Enjoy Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta

Serving the Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta is as enjoyable as making it. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this dish:

As a Main Course: Serve the pasta as a satisfying main dish paired with a simple side salad or garlic bread.
Lunch Delight: Pack the leftovers for a delicious lunch. It’s great served cold or reheated.
Perfect for Gatherings: This pasta is a fantastic choice for dinner parties; it’s quick to make and sure to impress your guests.

Seasonal Pairings: In the spring, serve it alongside fresh peas or asparagus. In the fall, consider adding roasted squash.
Storage Tips: Ensure leftovers are stored in a sealed container. They can easily last up to five days in the fridge.

FAQ

Absolutely! The Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta is naturally vegetarian, and you can easily make it your own by adding vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. It’s a versatile dish that allows for plenty of creativity in the kitchen!

Leftover Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to five days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of milk can help revive the creamy sauce and prevent it from drying out.

Yes, you can substitute the linguine with any pasta you prefer! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta can work well with this creamy sauce. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.

If you’re looking to add a little kick to your Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can mix them in while cooking the sauce to infuse the flavors throughout the dish. Just be cautious and add gradually to achieve your desired heat level!

Conclusion

The Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta truly embodies comfort food at its best. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s a dish that brings everyone together at the table. I encourage you to try making it yourself; it’s simple yet satisfying and perfect for any occasion!

Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, this Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it brings rich flavors that will leave you craving more. Make it tonight for a deliciously easy meal!

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Cook Time 15

Total Time 15

Course Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

Wooden Spoon
Large Pot
Grater

Ingredients

1/2 pound Linguine pasta
2 tablespoons Salted butter
1/4 cup Heavy cream
1/2 clove Garlic, finely minced (I used a microplane)
Lots of salt & pepper to taste
1/2 cup Reserved cooking liquid from pasta
3/4 cup Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano (use the real stuff!)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water up to boil. Sprinkle in a generous amount of salt and stir in the linguine. Cook until al dente and drain, reserving 1/2 cup cooking liquid.
Place linguine back into the hot pot and stir in the butter, cream, garlic, salt, pepper, and cheese until everything starts to melt and create a sauce. Pour in some pasta water to get the sauce to the consistency you want (I only used about three tablespoons).
Taste and adjust seasonings accordingly. Pour onto a serving platter and top with fresh parsley and more grated cheese.

Notes

Tip 1: I used a microplane for grating the garlic and the parmesan cheese right into the pot. If you are using pre-grated store-bought parmesan, I recommend about 1/2 cup.
Tip 2: This recipe gives only a hint of garlic; adjust the level to your liking!
Tip 3: You can store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid for three to five days.

Tip 4: To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop on medium heat. Add a splash of milk to help loosen the sauce before reheating.
Tip 5: For make-ahead options, consider cooking your pasta noodles and making the cream sauce separately, storing them in the fridge until you're ready to serve.