Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz angel hair pasta; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Busy Day Cooking

I love making Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Parmesan Sauce because it’s the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. The delicate strands of angel hair cook quickly, soaking up all the delicious flavors of garlic and Parmesan. The best part? You can whip it up in under 30 minutes! Each bite is a creamy and garlicky delight that brings warmth to the table, making it perfect for both cozy dinners and entertaining. Trust me, once you try this simple yet mouthwatering dish, it will become a go-to in your kitchen.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:40:45.341Z

When I first experimented with this Angel Hair Pasta, I realized how much a few simple ingredients could create something extraordinary. The combination of sautéed garlic and freshly grated Parmesan transforms ordinary pasta into a dish that feels gourmet. I found that using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness better, enhancing the natural flavors of the pasta and the cheese.

One night, I decided to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and it was a game-changer! Not only does this pasta dish pair beautifully with a green salad, but it also impresses guests. The secret lies in not overcooking the pasta—keeping it al dente gives the dish that perfect restaurant-quality texture.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation for any night of the week.
Creamy texture enriched with garlic and Parmesan goodness.
Easily customizable with vegetables or proteins.

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

Cooking angel hair pasta requires careful attention due to its delicate nature. Since it cooks faster than most other pasta types, start checking for doneness at around two minutes. You want it to be perfectly al dente, with a slight bite. Once cooked, drain immediately to stop the cooking process, ensuring you have a light, airy texture in your final dish.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water before cooking the pasta. This simple step enhances the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, reserving a cup of pasta water before draining can be beneficial. This starchy water can help loosen the sauce, creating a silkier texture while marrying the pasta and sauce together beautifully.

Crafting the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

The garlic in this recipe is vital not only for flavor but also for aroma, making your kitchen delightful while cooking. Sauté it gently in butter over medium heat until fragrant but avoid browning it, which can lead to bitterness. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes and keep an eye on it—garlic cooks quickly and can turn from golden to burnt in seconds.

When combining the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, it’s essential to do this on low heat to prevent the cheese from clumping. Stir constantly until the mixture is creamy and glossy, about 3-4 minutes. If the sauce appears too thick, you can whisk in a bit of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency without compromising on flavor.

Variations and Customizations

This Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce serves as an excellent base for customization. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. Just ensure that whatever protein you choose complements the delicate flavor of the pasta; I recommend pre-cooking them separately before adding them into the final mix.

For a refreshing twist, incorporate seasonal vegetables such as wilted spinach or cherry tomatoes. Add these towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their vibrancy and texture. Tossing in fresh herbs like basil along with the parsley can also brighten the dish, adding layers of fresh flavor that elevate this comfort food to gourmet status.

Ingredients

Pasta and Sauce Ingredients

12 oz angel hair pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 2-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Combine and Serve

Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan until smooth. Add the cooked pasta and toss until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can mix in cooked shrimp or vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the pasta.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance to streamline your dinner plans. You can cook the pasta and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to bring it back to a silky consistency.

If you're planning to freeze, it's best to skip the creamy sauce and freeze only the cooked pasta. When you're ready to enjoy, cook a new batch of the sauce to maintain freshness, and toss in the previously frozen pasta until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

To serve this dish, plate the pasta in shallow bowls for an elegant presentation. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper on top will not only enhance the flavor but also add a touch of sophistication. For a pop of color, a sprig of parsley or a lemon wedge on the side can brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Pair this pasta dish with a simple salad, such as arugula with a light vinaigrette, to balance the creaminess of the sauce. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, can complement the meal beautifully, highlighting the garlic and Parmesan without overpowering them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute other types of pasta?

Yes, while angel hair is ideal for this sauce, you can use other pasta like fettuccine or linguine.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

→ What can I add to this recipe for extra protein?

Grilled chicken or shrimp are great additions to make this dish heartier.