Rich and Creamy Parmesan Pasta
This Rich and Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—simple, elegant, and bursting with cheesy flavor. With just a few pantry staples and 20 minutes, you can make a silky, satisfying pasta that’s perfect on its own or paired with chicken, shrimp, or veggies.

Ingredients List
8 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water.
Serve hot, topped with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings
Makes 2–3 servings
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 450
Carbs: 40g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 26g
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days
Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce
Not ideal for freezing due to the cream base
Pairings/Suggestions
Serve with grilled chicken, garlic shrimp, or roasted vegetables
Add spinach, mushrooms, or peas for variety
Great as a side dish for steak or fish
Seasonal Relevance
Perfect year-round, especially during colder months when you want something rich and cozy
Also great for a last-minute date night dinner
Conclusion
This creamy Parmesan pasta is proof that simple ingredients can make a luxurious meal. Rich, cheesy, and endlessly versatile—it’s a must-have in your quick dinner rotation.
Rich and Creamy Parmesan Pasta
2–3
servings5
minutes15
minutes450
kcalA quick and luxurious Parmesan pasta made with garlic, cream, and cheese—simple, rich, and ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients
8 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Directions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water.
- Serve hot, topped with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan if desired.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for smooth, melty texture
Add red pepper flakes for a bit of spice
Toss in cooked bacon or pancetta for a savory twist
FAQs
Q1: Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner—use a bit more cheese to thicken.
Q2: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes—just use gluten-free pasta.
Q3: What cheese works best besides Parmesan?
Try Pecorino Romano or a Parmesan–mozzarella blend.
