Creamy Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

Zesty Creamy Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe in Minutes

Creamy garlic parmesan angel hair pasta represents the ultimate comfort food for pasta enthusiasts seeking luxurious texture and bold flavors.

Mediterranean culinary traditions inspire this delectable dish that enhances simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Silky strands of pasta combine effortlessly with rich, velvety sauce that coats each delicate strand.

Robust garlic notes dance alongside sharp parmesan cheese, creating a harmonious blend of robust and subtle tastes.

Home cooks can elevate their weeknight dinner with this surprisingly simple yet impressive recipe that comes together in minutes.

Professional chefs and amateur cooks alike appreciate how quickly this elegant dish satisfies serious food cravings.

Minimal kitchen skills guarantee spectacular results with this foolproof combination of classic Italian-inspired ingredients.

Pairing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta with Sides

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Complement the creamy, garlicky pasta with a chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, cutting through the richness and enhancing the delicate flavors.
  • Match with Herbed Chicken Breast: Serve alongside a lightly seasoned grilled chicken breast to add protein and create a balanced, satisfying meal that doesn't overwhelm the pasta's subtle taste.
  • Create Garlic Bread Side: Prepare cheesy garlic bread using similar ingredients like Parmesan and fresh parsley to echo the pasta's flavors and provide a crunchy textural contrast.
  • Add Fresh Salad Companion: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to bring brightness and cut through the pasta's creamy texture, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the rich dish.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Variations to Try

  • Spicy Southwest Angel Hair: Transform the classic recipe by adding diced jalapeños, chili powder, and a splash of lime juice. Stir in shredded pepper jack cheese for an extra kick of heat and southwestern flair.
  • Mediterranean Herb Infusion: Enhance the pasta with chopped fresh basil, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes. Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and top with crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
  • Creamy Seafood Edition: Fold in sautéed shrimp or crab meat during the final cooking stage. Incorporate a touch of white wine and replace some milk with heavy cream for a luxurious seafood pasta experience.
  • Vegetarian Garden Pasta: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. Sprinkle nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a plant-based protein boost.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta for a Simple Classic

  • Whip Up Super-Fast Comfort: This angel hair pasta delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners when hunger strikes and time is short.
  • Melt-in-Your-Mouth Creamy Texture: The combination of chicken broth, milk, and gradually melted Parmesan creates an incredibly smooth, velvety sauce that coats each delicate pasta strand with rich, luxurious goodness.
  • Customize Your Culinary Adventure: Flexible cooking method allows breaking pasta noodles or twisting them into the skillet, making this recipe adaptable for different kitchen tools and personal preferences while ensuring consistent, delicious results.
  • Elevate with Simple Ingredients: Using basic pantry staples like garlic, butter, and Parmesan, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that feels gourmet but requires minimal cooking skills.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta

Pasta and Noodles:
  • Angel Hair Pasta: Delicate, thin pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs sauce beautifully, perfect for creamy dishes.
Dairy Components:
  • Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, aged cheese that adds rich, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce, best when freshly grated.
  • Butter: Provides richness and helps create a smooth, creamy texture, adds depth to the overall dish.
  • Milk: Creates a silky base for the sauce, ensures a creamy and luxurious consistency.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that brings intense, pungent flavor to the pasta, best when freshly minced.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that adds color and fresh flavor, perfect for garnishing.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds depth and savory undertones to the sauce, enhances overall taste profile.
  • Optional Seasoning Mix: Provides additional flavor complexity and can be customized to personal preference.

How to Prepare Creamy Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

Collect all necessary components for a delightful pasta experience:
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Butter
  • Garlic
  • Chicken broth
  • Milk
  • Angel hair pasta
  • Fresh parsley
  • Optional seasoning mix

Grate the Parmesan cheese and let it rest at room temperature.

Step 2: Awaken the Garlic

Heat a large skillet over medium flame. Melt of butter, creating a golden pool of richness. Toss in minced garlic, allowing its aromatic essence to dance and become fragrant for 1-2 minutes. Stir gently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Create the Liquid Base

Pour chicken broth into the skillet. Add optional seasoning for an extra flavor boost. Slowly introduce milk, stirring to create a harmonious blend. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching as it transforms into a creamy canvas.

Step 4: Introduce the Pasta

Carefully add angel hair pasta to the bubbling liquid. You can:
  • Break noodles in half for easier cooking
  • Twist strands using kitchen tongs as they soften

Ensure pasta is completely submerged in the liquid.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce heat to low. Let pasta simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Watch as the noodles absorb the flavorful liquid and become tender.

Step 6: Finish with Butter and Cheese

Once pasta is cooked, add of butter, coating every strand. Gradually sprinkle Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously. The sauce might seem thin initially but will thicken as it cools and pasta absorbs more liquid.

Step 7: Prepare for Serving

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with a side of garlic cheese bread for a complete meal that delights the senses.

Top Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta

  • Select Fresh Ingredients: Choose freshly grated Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor and creaminess, avoiding pre-packaged grated cheese which can taste less vibrant.
  • Control Pasta Texture: Break angel hair pasta into shorter lengths or gently twist with tongs to ensure even cooking and easier eating experience.
  • Prevent Sauce Separation: Stir continuously while adding cheese and maintain low heat to create a smooth, silky sauce without curdling.
  • Manage Sauce Consistency: Allow the sauce to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking, as it will naturally thicken and become more luxurious when slightly cooled.
  • Enhance Flavor Depth: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh cracked black pepper for an extra taste dimension that complements the creamy garlic profile.

Storing and Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta

  • Store Leftovers: Transfer the creamy pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Use shallow containers to help cool the dish quickly and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Refrigeration Timeframe: Consume stored pasta within 3-4 days for optimal taste and food safety. Keep the pasta sealed tightly to maintain moisture and prevent absorbing other refrigerator odors.
  • Reheating Method: Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore creaminess. Stir gently and frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Avoid using the microwave, which can make the sauce separate and pasta become rubbery.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Silky angel hair pasta dances with rich garlic and parmesan in this luxurious Italian-inspired dish. Delicate strands swirl with a velvety sauce that whisks guests straight to a charming trattoria, promising comfort in each delectable forkful.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) angel hair pasta
  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) milk

Dairy and Cheese:

  • ½ cup (50 grams) finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons (45 grams) butter

Aromatics and Seasonings:

  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon parsley
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Grate the Parmesan cheese and allow it to rest at ambient temperature while preparing the remaining ingredients.
  2. Melt of butter in a spacious skillet over medium heat, ensuring even distribution.
  3. Introduce minced garlic to the melted butter, sautéing for approximately 1-2 minutes until aromatic and lightly golden.
  4. Carefully pour chicken broth and optional seasoning mix into the skillet, followed by slowly incorporating milk while stirring.
  5. Bring the liquid mixture to a gentle boil, creating a flavorful base for the pasta.
  6. Add angel hair pasta to the skillet, either breaking noodles in half or delicately twisting them using kitchen tongs as they soften.
  7. Reduce heat to low and allow pasta to simmer for 4-5 minutes, periodically stirring to prevent adherence to the pan.
  8. Once pasta reaches desired tenderness, incorporate the final tablespoon (15 milliliters) of butter, ensuring even coating.
  9. Gradually sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the skillet, continuously stirring to create a smooth, creamy sauce that will thicken upon cooling.
  10. Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and serving alongside crusty garlic cheese bread.

Notes

  • Quick-cooking angel hair pasta requires careful attention to prevent overcooking and maintain a perfect al dente texture.
  • Stirring continuously while adding Parmesan cheese prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
  • Breaking pasta noodles in half helps them fit easily into the skillet and cook more evenly.
  • Room temperature Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly and integrates better into the sauce.
  • The sauce naturally thickens as it cools and the pasta absorbs the liquid, creating a rich and creamy consistency.
  • Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor and beautiful green color to the finished dish.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 330 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Simple Everyday Recipes, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Creative Meal Planning, Recipe Testing and Improvement

Education

Fox Valley Technical College, Appleton, Wisconsin

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Practical culinary training, fundamental cooking techniques, meal planning, and using fresh, local ingredients.

Lake Superior College, Duluth, Minnesota

  • Program: Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems
  • Focus: Cooking methods that promote sustainability, farm-to-table practices, and eco-friendly meal creation.

Lucas Bennett’s cooking journey started in his parents’ kitchen, where he learned to prepare tasty, no-fuss meals from scratch. His culinary passion led him to Fox Valley Technical College, where he gained practical cooking skills.
He then expanded his focus on sustainability at Lake Superior College. Today, Lucas shares easy, approachable recipes designed to make cooking enjoyable and stress-free for everyone.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star