Description
A quick and creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta made in one pot, featuring tender angel hair pasta simmered in a flavorful garlic butter sauce with Parmesan cheese. Ready in 20 minutes and perfect as a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
Dairy
- 3 Tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 cup milk
Produce
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- Fresh Parsley (to garnish)
Pantry
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz. angel hair pasta
Instructions
- Prepare Parmesan Cheese: Grate the Parmesan cheese finely and set it aside to come to room temperature, which helps it melt smoothly into the sauce.
- Melt Butter: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a large skillet to create the base for your garlic sauce.
- Cook Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth followed by the milk slowly while stirring. Bring the mixture to a boil to prepare for cooking the pasta.
- Add Pasta: Add the angel hair pasta to the boiling liquid and gently twist them into the skillet with kitchen tongs as they soften to ensure they are submerged.
- Cook Pasta: Allow the pasta to cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, then reduce the heat to low to avoid overcooking.
- Add Butter and Cheese: Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and gradually mix in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. The sauce will thicken as it sits.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately, optionally with garlic bread with cheese for a complete meal.
Notes
- Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly; follow the timing on the package to avoid overcooking, which can make noodles clumpy.
- The sauce will be thin initially but will thicken upon standing as the pasta absorbs the liquid.
- Stir the pasta often during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor and avoid burning it while sautéing.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal.