Creamy Parmesan Garlic Noodles Recipe
If you crave a comforting, luscious pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Noodles Recipe might just become your new favorite. It’s beautifully simple yet indulgently tasty, combining tender noodles with a silky sauce enriched by butter, garlic, and the unmistakable savory punch of Parmesan cheese. Perfectly creamy with just the right balance of garlicky goodness, this recipe can easily elevate an ordinary meal into something truly special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you want a satisfying side or a quick solo dinner, these noodles deliver every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few straightforward ingredients is all it takes to make this creamy masterpiece. Each component plays a key role: from the tender egg noodles that soak up every bit of the sauce, to the Parmesan that adds that rich, nutty flavor and the garlic that provides just the right aromatic kick.
- 8 ounces egg noodles: Choose your favorite pasta to soak up the sauce; egg noodles work beautifully for their texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and richness to the sauce, helping to meld flavors together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a vibrant aroma and depth to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: This thickens the sauce to achieve that luscious creamy consistency.
- 1 cup whole milk: Creamy base that keeps the sauce smooth and dreamy.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds luxurious richness and a velvety texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This sharp, savory cheese is the star that defines the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of warming spice to balance the richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): For an extra hit of garlic flavor if you want to boost it further.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish with color and fresh herbal notes.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Garlic Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling your noodles according to the package instructions until they’re perfectly al dente. This is key because the noodles will continue to absorb the sauce later, so you want them tender but with a little bite. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside to prepare your sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant, around one minute. This step releases its essential oils, giving your sauce that irresistible garlicky aroma and flavor foundation.
Step 3: Create the Roux
Sprinkle in the flour and stir it into the butter and garlic mixture. Cook this for about a minute to form a light roux. This cooks off the flour’s raw taste and starts to thicken your sauce, which will become creamy and smooth in the next step.
Step 4: Whisk in Milk and Cream
Gradually add the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. This careful mixing ensures a silky, lump-free sauce. Continue cooking for 3 to 5 minutes until it becomes thick enough to coat the back of a spoon — that’s when you know it’s just right.
Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan and Seasonings
Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. The cheese will melt smoothly into the sauce, bringing that signature rich, nutty flavor that makes this recipe stand out. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the cooked noodles directly into the pan with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated. Heat it through for another one to two minutes so that every bite is warmed and infused with the luscious sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Garlic Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top to add a pop of vibrant green color and a mild, fresh counterbalance to the rich creaminess. For extra flair, freshly cracked black pepper or a little grated extra Parmesan works beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as a hearty side to grilled chicken, seared shrimp, or steamed vegetables. It can also accompany a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus for a well-rounded meal that feels both comforting and elegant.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these noodles in individual bowls topped with a poached egg for brunch or add sautéed mushrooms and peas directly into the sauce for a heartier twist. You can also layer them in a casserole dish with some mozzarella and bake briefly for a golden, bubbly finish that’s perfect for family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken as it sits, so be sure to stir well when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Creamy Parmesan Garlic Noodles Recipe, but be aware that the texture might change slightly. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the noodles in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and restore that creamy texture. Microwave reheating works too, but stirring every 30 seconds helps prevent dryness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for egg noodles, you can easily swap in fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta shape you love—the key is to cook them al dente so your final dish keeps a great bite.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?
Yes! You can use plant-based butter, unsweetened almond or oat milk, and dairy-free Parmesan substitutes to create a creamy, flavorful version while keeping it dairy-free.
Can I add protein to the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Noodles Recipe?
Definitely. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon are fantastic additions if you want to turn this side into a main dish packed with protein and even more flavor.
How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
If you want a thicker sauce, cook it a bit longer to let it reduce and thicken; to thin it out, simply stir in a bit more milk or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
Is it okay to use pre-minced garlic for this recipe?
While fresh garlic offers the best flavor and aroma, pre-minced garlic can work in a pinch. Just add it towards the beginning of sautéing to make sure it doesn’t burn and brown too quickly.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Noodles Recipe is one of those delightful kitchen treasures that manages to be both easy and luxuriously satisfying. It’s a perfect weeknight winner or a cozy weekend indulgence, packed with flavor but crafted from humble ingredients. I encourage you to try it for yourself—you might find it’s exactly the comforting dish you’ve been craving, ready to become a delicious staple at your table.
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Creamy Parmesan Garlic Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Noodles is a comforting and easy-to-make pasta dish featuring tender egg noodles smothered in a rich and velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect as a quick side or a satisfying main, this recipe combines simple ingredients with classic stovetop techniques to deliver a flavorful, buttery, and cheesy pasta meal garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces egg noodles or pasta of choice
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles or pasta of choice according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Make the roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute to form a light roux which will help thicken the sauce.
- Prepare the cream sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add cheese and seasoning: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if using. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the sauce and toss gently to coat evenly. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is warmed through.
- Serve with garnish: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- This dish is delicious on its own or served as a side.
- For a heartier meal, add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or cooked chicken.
- You can substitute half-and-half for the milk and heavy cream if preferred.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
