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Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a dish that embodies comfort and indulgence, marrying the rich flavors of garlic and cheese with the satisfying texture of pasta. Whether you are a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight meal or a culinary enthusiast seeking to impress your dinner guests, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. The appeal of Garlic Parmesan Pasta lies not only in its tantalizing taste but also in its simplicity and speed of preparation. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a gourmet meal that feels like a luxurious treat.

Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Indulge in a delightful Garlic Parmesan Pasta that’s simple yet bursting with flavor. Cooked to perfection, fettuccine or spaghetti is tossed in a creamy, garlicky sauce enriched with Parmesan and a hint of lemon zest. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a comforting pasta meal in no time. Top it off with fresh parsley and extra cheese for the ultimate finish. Enjoy!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti

4 tablespoons olive oil

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Zest of 1 lemon

Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned.

      Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

        Mix in Cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If the sauce appears too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles evenly in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

            Finish with Fresh Ingredients: Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon zest to brighten up the dish. Adjust any seasonings if necessary.

              Serve: Plate the pasta immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley, if desired. Enjoy!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4