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Creamy and Irresistible Pasta

This creamy and irresistible pasta is rich, satisfying, and perfect for impressing friends or indulging in on your own.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 700
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 400 g 400g (14 oz) fettuccine or tagliatelle Thick pasta holds the sauce better
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon salt For the pasta water
  • Water Enough to fully submerge the pasta
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 cup 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup 1 cup (240ml) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated melts smoothly into the sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked
  • 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg Optional, deepens sauce flavor
  • Salt To taste
Optional Add-Ins
  • 200 g 200g (7 oz) grilled chicken breast, sliced
  • 100 g 100g (3.5 oz) crispy bacon or pancetta
  • A handful of baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes Optional for garnish
  • Fresh parsley or basil For garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of salt.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, aiming for al dente.
  3. Before draining the pasta, scoop out about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside.
Building the Sauce
  1. In a large, wide pan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Finishing the Sauce
  1. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the Parmesan, stirring until fully melted.
  2. Add black pepper and nutmeg, then taste and adjust salt.
Combining
  1. Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
  2. Keep tossing over low heat for 1-2 minutes.
Serving
  1. Twirl the pasta into warmed bowls and top with extra Parmesan, black pepper, and fresh herbs.
  2. If adding optional ingredients, toss them in just before adding the pasta.

Notes

Use room temperature cream and freshly grated Parmesan for best results. Make sure not to skip the pasta water and consume immediately for optimal taste.