5 Fast Flavor-Packed Dinner Ideas

why make this recipe

This recipe is quick, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. It combines simple ingredients to create a meal that everyone will love. It’s also flexible, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or proteins.

how to make Creamy Garlic Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces of pasta
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
  4. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the cream sauce.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

5 Fast Flavor-Packed Dinner Ideas

how to serve Creamy Garlic Pasta

Serve the Creamy Garlic Pasta warm. You can add extra Parmesan cheese on top or serve it with a side salad and garlic bread. This makes a great family dinner!

how to store Creamy Garlic Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

tips to make Creamy Garlic Pasta

  • For a lighter version, you can use half and half instead of heavy cream.
  • Add veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
  • If you like it spicy, consider adding some red pepper flakes.

variation

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth or adding cooked chicken for protein.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.

Can I make this recipe in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving.

What can I add to the sauce for extra flavor?
You can add herbs like basil or thyme, or even some sun-dried tomatoes for a tasty twist.

Five fast and flavor-packed dinner ideas for easy weeknight meals

Creamy Garlic Pasta

This quick and delicious creamy garlic pasta is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing customization with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
  • 8 ounces 8 ounces of pasta Any type of pasta can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons of olive oil For sautéing garlic.
  • 4 cloves 4 cloves of garlic, minced Adds flavor to the sauce.
  • 1 cup 1 cup of heavy cream Can substitute with half and half for a lighter version.
  • 1 cup 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese For a rich, cheesy flavor.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish Adds color and freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Cooking
  1. Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
  2. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
  3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the cream sauce.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve warm with optional extra Parmesan, a side salad, and garlic bread. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

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