Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Masterpiece

Key Info:

Prep Time: 5-10 minutes

Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Total Time: 20-30 minutes

Servings: 4

Difficulty: Easy

Dietary: Vegetarian, Optional Gluten-Free

Equipment Needed:

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Grater
• Measuring tools
• Wooden spoon

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Pro Chef Tips:

• Always grate Parmesan fresh
• Reserve pasta water for perfect sauce consistency
• Don’t brown garlic – it turns bitter

Method:

1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente
   • Cook 8-10 minutes
   • Reserve 1 cup pasta water
2. Melt butter in large skillet
   • Add minced garlic
   • Sauté exactly 1-2 minutes (fragrant, not brown)
3. Add broth and cream
   • Bring to gentle simmer
   • Stir constantly
4. Add cooked pasta to sauce
   • Toss to coat completely
   • Use reserved pasta water to adjust thickness
5. Remove from heat
   • Gradually stir in Parmesan
   • Ensure smooth, creamy texture
6. Season and garnish
   • Add salt and pepper
   • Sprinkle fresh parsley

Crucial Variations:

• Add protein: Chicken, shrimp
• Make it spicy: Red pepper flakes
• Gluten-free: Use GF pasta
• Vegetarian: Skip chicken broth

Storage Hacks:

• Refrigerate 3 days
• Reheat with splash of milk
• Best consumed fresh

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Don’t overcook pasta
• Avoid high heat after adding cheese
• Grate cheese fresh
• Add cheese gradually

Nutrition Snapshot:

• High calcium
• Moderate protein
• Carb-rich comfort food

Perfect Pairings:

• Crisp white wine
• Light salad
• Garlic bread

Final Chef’s Note:

This isn’t just pasta. It’s a canvas for your culinary creativity. Make it yours!