If you are a fan of rich, comforting pasta dishes that feel like a warm hug on a plate, you are going to absolutely adore this Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe. It brings together the perfect balance of creamy, garlicky butter sauce paired with tender linguine, all melted together with luscious Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. This dish is a fast, simple, yet indulgent meal that turns everyday ingredients into something truly spectacular and is sure to become a household favorite in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential and plays a special role, whether it’s the buttery base that carries the flavor, the cheeses that add luscious texture, or the garlic that delivers that unforgettable aroma.
- 12 oz linguine pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and deliver a delightful bite.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Gives the sauce a rich, velvety foundation without overpowering the flavors.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Provides fragrant, savory notes that define the character of the dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a smooth, luscious sauce that perfectly wraps the pasta.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth and contributes to the sauce’s creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, giving the dish gooey, cheesy warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the delicious flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a bright, fresh finish with a pop of color.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil and cook 12 ounces of linguine pasta according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente, usually around 9 to 10 minutes. The salt in the water seasons the pasta from within, creating a depth of flavor. Once cooked, drain the pasta but save half a cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce later—it’s pure gold for achieving that silky consistency.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 6 cloves of minced garlic and gently sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, just until it releases its fragrant aroma and turns golden. Be attentive here because burnt garlic will turn bitter and spoil the sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 3 to 4 minutes to reduce slightly and thicken, which ensures a luxurious coating for your linguine.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring as the cheeses melt into the cream and butter mixture, transforming it into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, remembering that Parmesan brings its own salty punch.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained linguine directly into the skillet with your cheesy garlic butter sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly so every strand of pasta is luxuriously coated. If the sauce feels too thick, gently loosen it up with a splash of the reserved pasta water—this trick makes the sauce cling beautifully without becoming runny.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your cheesy garlic butter linguine pasta to plates or a serving bowl. Finish with a generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a scattering of fresh chopped parsley. This dish is best served right away for the gooeyest, creamiest experience.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the richness. A little extra grated Parmesan just before serving adds a salty, cheesy finish that makes every bite irresistible. For a hint of heat, consider a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, green salads—think mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette—to balance out the richness. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also a classic side that’s perfect for sopping up any remaining creamy sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli work well to add texture and freshness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try twirling portions of the linguine into elegant nests on the plate for a refined look. Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the sauce beautifully, and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for an elevated touch. Individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets can also make each serving feel special and cozy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavor remains rich, although the cheese sauce may thicken in the fridge.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this pasta if needed. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to help maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream mixed in. This helps to loosen the sauce and bring back that silky smoothness. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the cheese to separate.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is ideal because it holds the sauce well, you can also use fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Just ensure your Parmesan is vegetarian or use a plant-based cheese alternative if needed.
How can I make the sauce less rich?
You can lighten the sauce by substituting half of the heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based milk. Keep in mind this will slightly alter the creaminess and richness but still deliver great flavor.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon pieces make excellent additions. Add them just before combining the pasta and sauce to keep everything warm and delicious.
What’s the best way to prevent the garlic from burning?
Keep the heat at medium and stir the garlic constantly as it sautés. Once it turns golden and fragrant, quickly move on to adding the cream to prevent any bitterness from burning.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe is a true celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly comforting and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to please every time. So grab your skillet, put on some music, and dive into a plate of creamy, cheesy goodness—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta that combines tender linguine with a luscious garlic butter sauce, heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. Ready in just 20 minutes, this comforting pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz linguine pasta (or your favorite pasta)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 9-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside for later use.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden brown, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic butter and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.
- Add the Cheeses: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese continuously until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked linguine pasta to the skillet with the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Toss the pasta well to coat it evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the cheesy garlic butter linguine pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Be careful not to burn the garlic during sautéing to avoid bitterness.
- Reserve pasta water helps thin out the sauce and helps it cling better to pasta.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but the sauce will be less rich.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting.
- This recipe can be doubled easily to serve more people.
