Ingredients
Scale
Gathering your ingredients is the first step in creating culinary magic. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1/2 cup peas or 1 cup cooked chicken for added protein
If you’re out of heavy cream, whole milk with a tablespoon of flour can do the trick. For a vegan twist, substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast and cream with coconut milk.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the cooking process, which is as enjoyable as the dish itself:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it!
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently as it begins to simmer. Allow it to thicken slightly, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until each piece is well coated. If you’re adding peas or chicken, mix them in at this stage.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. As you take that first bite, let the flavors transport you to a place of warmth and familial love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
