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Delicious Garlic Cheese Pasta served in a bowl, garnished with herbs.

Easy Garlic Cheese Pasta

This easy garlic cheese pasta combines comfort and simplicity in every creamy bite, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something satisfying.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter Adds richness.
  • 3-4 cloves garlic (crushed) Provides aromatic flavor.
  • 1 heaped tablespoon flour Thickens the sauce.
  • 1-1½ cups milk For a creamy texture.
  • ½ cup cream Can be substituted with all milk.
  • 2 cups grated cheese of your choice Used a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
  • 1 handful fresh parsley (chopped) Adds freshness.
  • 1 squeeze fresh lemon juice Brightens the dish.
  • to taste Salt & pepper For seasoning.
Pasta
  • 500 g pasta of your choice (cooked) Reserve 1 cup of the cooking water.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Melt the butter in a large, deep frying pan over medium heat, allowing it to bubble slightly.
  2. Add crushed garlic and fry until fragrant, about a minute. Be careful not to burn it.
  3. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk together to form a roux.
Cooking the Sauce
  1. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to form a smooth sauce.
  2. If using cream, add it now and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
  3. Cook for about 5 minutes until thickened into a luscious sauce.
  4. Turn off the heat and stir in the grated cheese until melted.
  5. Add chopped parsley, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Incorporate the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, adding reserved pasta cooking water as needed.
  2. Ensure the sauce coats the pasta generously.
  3. Serve immediately.

Notes

Using a combination of cheeses adds depth. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Top with toasted breadcrumbs for extra texture.