Description
A rich, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish made with Barilla pasta, garlic, parmesan, and a hint of cream. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal!
Ingredients
- 12 oz Barilla fettuccine (or any Barilla pasta of choice)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 cup spinach (optional, for extra greens)
- ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add Barilla pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add Pasta & Spinach
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it. Stir in spinach (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot with extra parmesan cheese on top!
Notes
- Substitute half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Use gluten-free Barilla pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (~1.5 cups)
- Calories: ~480 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Barilla pasta recipes, creamy garlic parmesan pasta, easy pasta dish, Italian comfort food