Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz angel hair pasta; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Meal Shortcuts

I love making Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce because it's a quick and satisfying meal that comes together in no time. This dish is a go-to for busy evenings when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of light, delicate pasta and a creamy, garlicky sauce speaks to my comfort food cravings. I always have these ingredients on hand, making it easy to whip up a delightful dinner that feels indulgent yet simple.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:21:36.389Z

I remember the first time I made Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce—it quickly became one of my favorite recipes. The silky texture of the angel hair combined with the rich, savory flavors of garlic and cream creates a comforting meal that's hard to resist. I like to finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and cracked pepper, adding a touch of brightness to the dish.

One of my best tips is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining it. Adding this starchy water to the sauce helps it cling beautifully to the pasta, enhancing the overall flavor and making it even creamier. It's these little details that elevate this simple recipe into something special!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, garlicky sauce that coats the pasta perfectly
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for busy weeknights
A comforting classic that's always a crowd-pleaser

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce lies in the quality of the ingredients. Opt for fresh, high-quality Parmesan cheese; freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-packaged varieties. The butter and cream create the luscious base for the sauce, so don’t skimp on these. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but be aware that the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

Garlic is the star of this dish and adds an aromatic depth to the sauce. When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, which can result in a bitter taste. You want it just golden and fragrant, about one minute over medium heat. If you love more garlic, feel free to increase the quantity, but remember that raw garlic will have a stronger punch than sautéed garlic.

Perfecting Your Technique

Cooking the pasta to the perfect al dente is essential for this dish. Angel hair cooks quickly, usually in about four minutes, so set a timer to avoid overcooking. Reserve that cup of pasta water before draining – it is key to adjusting your sauce's consistency later. Adding a few tablespoons of pasta water to the sauce helps it adhere better to the pasta, creating a glossiness that enhances the dish’s appeal.

When combining the pasta with the sauce, use a gentle tossing method. Avoid stirring vigorously, as this can break the delicate strands of angel hair. Instead, use tongs or a pasta fork to lift and turn the pasta, ensuring that every strand gets coated in that creamy, garlic-infused goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious angel hair pasta!

Ingredients

12 oz angel hair pasta
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your dish:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 4 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Make the Sauce

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Lower the heat and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.

Garnish and Serve

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy angel hair pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding sautéed vegetables or grilled chicken to the dish. This will not only enhance the taste but also make it more nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

This Angel Hair Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, providing a fresh balance to the richness of the sauce. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread to extend that buttery, garlicky flavor throughout the meal. If you're in the mood for a protein boost, grilled chicken or shrimp can be added on top of the pasta for a heartier dish.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish with a subtle warmth. You can also experiment with adding fresh lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavors and cut through the creaminess.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the garlic Parmesan sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to bring it back to a creamy consistency. When cooking the pasta, undercook it slightly before mixing it with the sauce, so it holds up better upon reheating.

Freezing the sauce is another option, but be aware that the cream may slightly separate upon thawing. To freeze, let the sauce cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and stir well to recombine the textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While angel hair is ideal for this sauce, you can substitute with spaghetti or linguine if preferred.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Yes, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute the butter with olive oil, the cream with a non-dairy milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan version!