Creamy Pasta Dish

Sometimes the simplest meals are the most comforting, and this creamy pasta dish is the perfect example. Rich, smooth, and deeply satisfying, it comes together quickly with just a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or craving a cozy bowl of pasta, this recipe delivers classic flavor with minimal effort.

The velvety sauce coats every strand of pasta, while garlic and Parmesan add depth and warmth. It’s a versatile base recipe that can be enjoyed as-is or dressed up with your favorite additions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy pasta is quick, reliable, and endlessly customizable. It requires only one pan for the sauce and uses pantry staples, making it ideal when you want something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. The result is a silky, restaurant-style pasta that tastes luxurious but is incredibly easy to make.

Creamy Pasta Dish Recipe

Ingredients

• Pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¼ cup butter

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce Base

In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.

3. Add the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the cream to cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly.

4. Stir in the Cheese

Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and velvety. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta directly to the sauce and toss until well coated. Let it simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavor of the sauce.

6. Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce

• Keep the heat gentle to prevent the cream from separating

• Reserve pasta water—it helps bind the sauce beautifully

• Season gradually to avoid over-salting

Easy Variations

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon

• Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach

• Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a little heat

• Finish with a squeeze of lemon for brightness

Final Thoughts

This creamy pasta dish is a timeless classic that never disappoints. With its rich sauce and comforting flavors, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Simple, elegant, and satisfying, it proves that great meals don’t need complicated ingredients—just a little care and good technique.