So creamy and delish! We eat this pretty much every week!

Optional Add-ins:

• Sautéed spinach or broccoli for added vegetables
• Crispy bacon bits for extra flavor
• A dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions. Once it’s done, drain and set aside. Make sure to reserve a little bit of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn it!

Next, pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir constantly to prevent the cream from separating. Once the cream has heated through, add the parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. If you’re adding cooked chicken or any other mix-ins, now’s the time to stir them in. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up the sauce and flavors.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat. Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve in bowls, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and extra flavor.

Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Dish

1. Add Vegetables: If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, try adding sautéed spinach, broccoli, or even mushrooms to the mix. They pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and add extra nutrients.
2. Use Grated Cheese: For the best texture, always use freshly grated parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce.
3. Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the richness will be toned down a bit.
4. Protein Options: While this dish is fantastic with chicken, you can easily swap in shrimp, bacon, or even a vegetarian option like tofu for protein.
5. Make It Ahead: This dish keeps well in the fridge, so you can meal prep for the week ahead. Just store it in an airtight container, and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to help restore the creaminess.

Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite

The beauty of this creamy pasta dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s the kind of recipe you can tweak based on what’s in your fridge or what your family enjoys most. The creamy sauce is rich without being overly heavy, and it pairs perfectly with pasta, which is always a crowd-pleaser.

The addition of protein and vegetables makes it a balanced meal, while the garlic and parmesan give it that irresistible savory flavor. Plus, it’s quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner but comforting enough to make you feel like you’ve indulged in something special.

Final Thoughts

The So Creamy and Delish! recipe has earned its spot in our weekly rotation for good reason: it’s just too delicious to resist. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing it for a gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. The creamy sauce, combined with pasta and your choice of add-ins, makes it a comfort food classic that you’ll come back to again and again.

So, the next time you’re looking for a satisfying, easy-to-make meal, give this creamy delight a try! You won’t regret it.