If you are craving a dish that wraps comfort, richness, and a burst of garlicky goodness all in one, look no further than this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Recipe. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines silky, buttery sauce with perfectly cooked linguine and a melty cheese blend that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing guests with a simple yet indulgent meal, this recipe hits every note just right. It’s incredibly satisfying, easy to make, and a timeless addition to any pasta lover’s repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Recipe has a vital role, simple yet powerful in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the savory garlic punched-up by butter to the combo of cheeses that deliver that signature creamy melt, these essentials are straightforward and accessible.
- 12 oz linguine: The perfect pasta shape to carry the luscious sauce with every twist and twirl.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps mellow the garlic’s sharpness.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): The aromatic heart of the dish, infusing it with bold flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky base for the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings in nutty and salty depth.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers stretchiness and gooey texture.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick to elevate the flavors.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): A burst of color and freshness to finish the dish.
- Freshly grated Parmesan (for serving): Optional extra cheese for a wow factor on the plate.
How to Make Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt is a simple trick that seasons the pasta from within, enhancing the dish’s final taste. Cook your linguine according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente—the perfect bite that holds up under the sauce without getting mushy. Before draining, reserve about half a cup of the pasta water; this starchy liquid is pure magic for adjusting your sauce’s consistency later.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the pasta boils, melt your butter in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant and golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a close eye here, because overcooked garlic can quickly turn bitter, but perfectly cooked garlic unlocks an irresistible aroma and flavor that forms the backbone of your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Add the Cream and Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat. Let the cream thicken slightly as you stir continuously, creating that luscious texture we’re after. Next, stir in both Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Watch as the cheeses melt into the warm cream, transforming it into a rich, velvety sauce. Season your creation with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a hint of heat. This balance of seasoning will take the sauce to the next level without overpowering the delicate pasta.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your drained linguine directly into the skillet with the creamy garlic butter sauce. Toss everything together with love so every strand of pasta is luxuriously coated. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach the ideal silkiness. This starchy water not only thins the sauce but helps it cling beautifully to the linguine.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once your pasta is perfectly coated, it’s time to bring it to the table. Plate your linguine and finish off with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of green and a fresh bite. Don’t forget an extra handful of grated Parmesan for that pure cheesy decadence on top. Serve immediately while the sauce is warm and gooey for the best experience.
How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or even basil add a beautiful contrast to the creamy richness of the dish. A dash of freshly cracked black pepper or a little lemon zest can also brighten each bite, making the flavors pop with freshness.
Side Dishes
This linguine pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a simple roasted vegetable side like asparagus or broccoli also complement the creaminess perfectly, rounding out your meal with a bit of texture and extra flavor contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, try serving your Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Recipe in individual shallow bowls with an artistic drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts. A small nest of microgreens on top can turn this simple comfort food into a restaurant-worthy plate that looks as incredible as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken when chilled, so don’t worry—it can easily be loosened back up when reheating.
Freezing
While this dish tastes best fresh, you can freeze the cooked pasta and sauce separately (to avoid texture changes in the cheese) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the creamy consistency.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to coax the sauce back to its creamy state. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the cheese to separate or become grainy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine works wonderfully here, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne can be great alternatives. Just adjust cooking times as needed for the pasta shape you choose.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works but will add a subtle coconut flavor.
How do I make the sauce less thick?
Adding reserved pasta cooking water little by little is the best way to loosen the sauce without diluting flavor. You can also stir in a splash of milk or cream as you reheat leftovers.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon all pair beautifully with this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Recipe and can turn it into a full meal.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes for a mild kick that can be adjusted or omitted depending on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy enough for a weeknight treat but elegant enough to impress guests. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this luscious pasta as much as I do — it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen too.
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Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy cheesy garlic butter linguine is a quick and comforting pasta dish featuring tender linguine tossed in a luscious sauce made from garlic sautéed in butter, rich heavy cream, and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Perfectly seasoned and garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, this recipe is ideal for a delicious weeknight meal in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz linguine (or your favorite pasta)
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Linguine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: While the pasta cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained linguine to the skillet and toss to thoroughly coat the pasta in the creamy garlic butter sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it to your preferred consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the pasta is well coated, transfer it to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor and color.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and savor the rich, cheesy, garlicky goodness of this comforting pasta dish.
Notes
- Be careful not to burn the garlic; cook it just until fragrant and light golden for best flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it thickens too much.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes slightly or omit them for a milder version.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be gently reheated with a splash of cream or pasta water.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
