Description
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender linguine tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick yet indulgent meal that satisfies cheesy pasta cravings with a fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 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 the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then set the pasta 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 the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, taking care not to burn it.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic butter and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the Cheeses: Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses to the skillet. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt fully and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Toss the pasta gently but thoroughly to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, then garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and the chopped fresh parsley to add color and a fresh flavor contrast. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
- Do not overcook garlic to avoid bitterness.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but sauce will be less rich.
- Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving for vibrant color and freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
