Description
A rich, velvety creamy pasta dish that comes together in just 15 minutes using simple pantry staples like butter, cream, garlic, and cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting, gourmet-tasting meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces (225 grams) pasta (fettuccine or penne recommended)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced finely
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium)
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) freshly shredded Sharp Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Salt, for pasta water and to taste
- 1 cup reserved starchy pasta water
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Before draining, scoop out about 1 cup of starchy pasta water and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in heavy cream and broth. Stir to combine and let the mixture come to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. Do not boil vigorously.
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually add grated Parmesan and shredded Cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Drain pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together over low heat for about 1 minute until fully coated.
- Season with black pepper and additional salt if needed. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded to avoid graininess caused by anti-caking agents. Save pasta water; the starch helps bind the sauce to the noodles. If the sauce breaks, add a splash of cold pasta water and whisk vigorously. For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 2
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 35
- Saturated Fat: 20
- Carbohydrates: 60
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 20
Keywords: creamy pasta, quick dinner, weeknight meal, easy pasta recipe, 15 minute dinner, comfort food, homemade pasta sauce