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Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 55 reviews

A creamy and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Pasta made with angel hair pasta simmered in a garlic-infused chicken broth and milk sauce, enriched with butter and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This quick and comforting meal is garnished with fresh parsley and perfect for a simple yet elegant dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 3 Tablespoons butter, divided
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 8 oz. angel hair pasta
  • Fresh parsley, to garnish

Optional Seasonings

  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon parsley
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare Parmesan Cheese: Grate the Parmesan cheese finely and set it aside to come to room temperature. This helps it melt smoothly into the sauce later.
  2. Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and add the optional seasoning mix (onion powder, oregano, thyme, parsley, pepper). Slowly add the milk while stirring. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Add Pasta: Add the angel hair pasta to the skillet. You may break the noodles in half for better fit or allow them to soften, then twist them into the skillet using kitchen tongs.
  5. Simmer Pasta: Let the pasta cook in the simmering sauce for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once mostly cooked, reduce the heat to low.
  6. Add Butter: Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the warm pasta and toss well to coat evenly for a rich flavor and silky texture.
  7. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Gradually sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the pasta, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. The sauce will start thin but will thicken as it stands.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with Garlic Bread with Cheese for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly; refer to the package instructions to avoid overcooking, which can cause the noodles to become clumpy.
  • Allow grated Parmesan to reach room temperature for better melting.
  • You can customize the seasoning to taste or omit optional herbs for a simpler flavor.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.