If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful pasta dish that’s both creamy and indulgent, look no further than this Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe. Picture perfectly cooked linguine tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, enriched with a heavenly blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, creating a velvety coating that clings to every strand. It’s a simple yet spectacular meal that quickly comes together in about 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or anytime you want to impress yourself and others with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of taste and that irresistible creamy texture. From the richness of the butter to the sharpness of Parmesan, each component enhances the final flavor.
- 12 oz linguine pasta: Choose your favorite pasta, but linguine’s flat strands are perfect for holding onto creamy sauces.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and helps sauté the garlic evenly without overpowering the flavors.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with that warm, aromatic punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is the secret to the sauce’s silkiness and indulgent mouthfeel.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan offers a wonderful salty, nutty complexity that makes the sauce unmistakably Italian.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, adding gooey texture and a mellow flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that perfectly balances and elevates all the ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and beautiful color contrast for garnish.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This step is crucial because properly salted water seasons the pasta from inside out. Cook your linguine until it’s perfectly al dente, around 9 to 10 minutes as per the package directions. Once done, drain the pasta but reserve about half a cup of the pasta water; this starchy liquid is gold when it comes to adjusting the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant and a lovely golden hue develops, usually about 1 to 2 minutes. Be mindful here, as burnt garlic can turn bitter, and we definitely want to keep it rich and delicious.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour the heavy cream right into the skillet with your garlic butter and let it come to a gentle simmer. This step thickens the sauce slightly, ensuring it clings beautifully to your linguine. Simmer it for about 3 to 4 minutes while stirring occasionally to keep everything smooth and luscious.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses
Now, add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes irresistibly creamy and smooth. This is where that dreamy texture really comes to life. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste — this balances the richness perfectly.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the drained linguine to the skillet and toss it gently but thoroughly to coat every strand with the cheesy garlic butter sauce. If you find the sauce a touch too thick, stir in a little of the reserved pasta water. This trick not only loosens the sauce but also helps it cling to the pasta in the most delightful way.
Step 6: Serve
Plate the pasta immediately, showering extra Parmesan cheese on top and sprinkling with freshly chopped parsley. This final flourish adds just a touch of freshness and a vibrant pop of color that makes the dish as pretty as it tastes.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a wonderful classic garnish for this recipe, adding brightness and an herbal note that cuts through the richness. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle some additional Parmesan or even a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you love a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This creamy, cheesy linguine pairs beautifully with crisp green salads such as arugula dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These sides provide a nice balance of textures and flavors, keeping the meal satisfying but not too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, serve the linguine in warm pasta bowls and add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few shavings of Parmesan on top. You can also nestle roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms alongside to lend color and depth, making this dish an impressive centerpiece for any dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesy garlic butter linguine pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta from drying out, it’s best to add a splash of cream or milk before refrigerating.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container with a bit of extra cream mixed in to preserve moisture. Consume within 1 month for optimal quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warmth and creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine works beautifully to hold the sauce, you can swap in fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne depending on what you have on hand or your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
To adapt this recipe for a dairy-free version, try replacing butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cream and cheese substitutes. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will differ, but it can still be delicious.
Can I add protein to make this a more complete meal?
Yes! This pasta pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits. Adding protein makes the dish more filling and can help round out your meal.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Use medium heat and keep a close eye on the garlic while sautéing. Stir frequently and remove from heat as soon as it turns lightly golden to avoid any bitter taste.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick or too thin?
If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer gently a bit longer to thicken up, or add a little more cheese to enrich it.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites because it is not only utterly delicious but also a breeze to prepare. Whether you’re feeding family, hosting friends, or just indulging yourself after a long day, I promise this creamy, cheesy dish will hit all the right notes. Give it a try and watch it become a fast staple in your pasta repertoire!
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Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and comforting Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta combines perfectly cooked linguine with a rich garlic butter sauce, heavy cream, and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Ready in just 20 minutes, this pasta dish is an easy yet indulgent meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz linguine pasta (or your favorite pasta)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 9-10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden brown, being careful not to burn it.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Add the heavy cream to the skillet with the garlic and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained linguine to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the cheesy garlic butter linguine and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency for a smoother texture.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic while sautéing, as it will turn bitter.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to substitute linguine with any pasta of your choice.
- Add chili flakes for a little heat if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
