This pasta can stand on its own as a quick meal, but it also welcomes extras. Add cooked chicken, shrimp, crispy bacon, or sautéed mushrooms if you want more substance. A handful of spinach stirred in at the end adds color and balance. Serve it straight from the pan, topped with extra cheese and black pepper, and you’ll have a dish that feels both effortless and deeply satisfying. It’s proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Reserved pasta water, as needed
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in well-salted boiling water according to package directions. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.
- In the same pot or a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently, and let it warm for 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce, tossing to coat.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until creamy and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs and extra cheese if desired.