So you are craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen huh? Same. This five ingredient garlic Parmesan pasta is my go to when I want food that feels fancy but requires zero life overhaul. It hits savory, buttery, and cheesy notes with zero drama. Ready in about the same time it takes to procrastinate doing anything useful.

If you get extra ambitious you can make it a meal with some roasted veggies or a quick pan sear of chicken. If you want inspiration for a creamier, chicken-packed version check out this little twist I love creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta with cheesy comfort

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Let us be real here. Why is this recipe awesome? Because it makes you look like you know what you are doing without actually having to try that hard. It is stupid simple and hard to mess up. Seriously I say that with confidence because even on days when I am distracted by a dozen minor crises this one turns out great.

It uses pantry basics so you probably already own everything. It comes together fast so you can eat before your hangry self takes over. Plus it is flexible. Want to add shrimp or spinach? Go for it. Prefer penne instead of spaghetti? Fine by me. FYI this little dish plays well with leftovers too.

Also if you ever need a base recipe to riff off try this other take for inspiration creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pasta — spaghetti or fettuccine whatever you have. No judgement.
Butter — the good stuff if possible. Salted or unsalted works.
Garlic — minced. Fresh is best but jarred works in a pinch.
Parmesan cheese — grated. Freshly grated if you can swing it.
Salt and pepper to taste — do not be shy on the pepper.
Optional parsley for garnish — because green things make photos look nicer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot garnished with parsley if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta. Nobody wants mushy sadness on their fork. Aim for al dente and stop the panic.
Burning the garlic. Garlic cooks fast. Once it smells amazing get it under control. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and ruins vibes.
Skimping on the cheese. This is a Parmesan parade. Hold back and you get bland pasta regret.
Not seasoning enough. Pasta needs salt. Add it to the boiling water and taste as you go.
Tossing everything in a cold pan. Heat matters. Warm the skillet so the butter and cheese play nice.

Alternatives & Substitutions

Pasta swap? Use penne fusilli or even rigatoni if that is what you have. Texture changes but the comfort level stays high. If you want a short pasta vibe try penne for easy fork loading.
Butter alternatives? Olive oil works for a lighter version. If you must use margarine it will do the job but IMO your taste buds will be less thrilled.
Cheese switch? Pecorino Romano stands in if you want a saltier punch. Or mix Parmesan and Pecorino for personality.
Garlic options? Use garlic powder in a pinch but use less. Fresh garlic gives the most aromatic hit.
Make it creamy? Add a splash of reserved pasta water or a spoonful of heavy cream and stir until silky.
Add protein? Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a one pan dinner. For a quick protein boost try a canned tuna stirred in at the end.

Pro tip If you want a failproof creamy route save some pasta water before draining and whisk a little into the butter cheese mix. The starch will make the sauce cling like a dream. Also for more recipe ideas try riffing off this comfort classic another creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta

FAQ

Q Will this work with whole wheat or gluten free pasta?
A Yes it will. Different pasta cooks at different times so check the package and aim for al dente. Gluten free can be a bit more fragile so handle gently when tossing.

Q Can I use pregrated Parmesan from the supermarket?
A You can but fresh grated melts better and tastes brighter. Pregrated often has anti clumping additives that change texture slightly. If convenience wins then go for it.

Q How do I stop the garlic from burning?
A Lower the heat a touch and keep it moving in the pan. Add the pasta quickly once the garlic is fragrant. Burned garlic happens fast so stay present for this one.

Q Can I make this ahead of time and reheat?
A Sure. Store in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Reheat on the stove if you can to keep texture nicer than the microwave.

Q Want it spicy?
A Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or finish with cracked black pepper for a milder kick.

Q Is parsley really necessary?
A No but it looks cute and adds a hint of freshness. Use it if you want to impress Instagram or yourself.

Q How much garlic is too much?
A As much as your roommates tolerate. For one pound of pasta two to three cloves is a good ballpark. If you love garlic go wild but be prepared for people to notice.

Final Thoughts

This recipe is proof that simple food can feel indulgent. You do not need a million exotic ingredients or a cookbook shelf to make something delicious. Keep it buttery keep it garlicky and do not be afraid to add your own spin.

Bold move suggestion Add a little lemon zest for brightness or a handful of greens for texture. Little tweaks make it feel like your signature dish.

Now go impress someone or yourself with your new culinary skills You earned it

Conclusion

If you want a similar five ingredient idea to compare notes try this tasty variation on the theme 5 Ingredient Parmesan Garlic Penne

Five Ingredient Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A quick and easy five-ingredient pasta dish that delivers rich garlic and Parmesan flavors without the fuss.

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot garnished with parsley if desired.

Notes

For a creamier version, save some pasta water and whisk it into the butter cheese mix. You can also add chicken or shrimp for protein.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: pasta, garlic, Parmesan, quick meal, vegetarian

5 Ingredient Garlic Parmesan Pasta