Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 bulb of garlic; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 300g pasta of your choice; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Daily Meals

I absolutely adore making this Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta whenever I want to impress my family or guests. The roasted garlic creates a deep, savory flavor that's complemented perfectly by the creamy sauce. It’s a dish that takes minimal effort but yields maximum satisfaction—it’s the kind of comfort food that makes Sundays feel special. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen while it’s cooking is simply irresistible, making it hard not to have a taste before serving!

Created by

Theodora Blythe

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:29:35.021Z

While experimenting with pasta dishes, I discovered that roasting garlic truly enhances its flavor. Cooking the garlic slowly in the oven allows it to caramelize, transforming it into a sweet, buttery ingredient that brings life to any sauce. This method works wonders in creating a depth of flavor you wouldn't get from just sautéing raw garlic.

I also find that adding a splash of pasta water to the creamy sauce helps it cling to the pasta beautifully. It’s a simple trick I always use to ensure my sauces are silky smooth, and it really makes a difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, roasted garlic flavor that elevates your dish
Creamy, dreamy sauce that coats each strand of pasta perfectly
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for a relaxed Sunday dinner

      

Mastering the Roasting Technique

Roasting garlic is a straightforward technique that transforms pungent raw cloves into sweet, mellow gems. To achieve the best results, make sure to cut off just enough of the garlic bulb's top to expose the individual cloves without removing too much. The foil will trap steam, allowing the garlic to become soft and spreadable, typically requiring about 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). You’ll know it’s ready when it’s golden and fragrant, a clear indicator of that rich flavor waiting to infuse your pasta.

If you find yourself short on time, you can use pre-roasted garlic, but nothing beats the freshness of roasting your own. If you’re roasting a larger batch, store extras in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to a week, and you can easily toss them into soups, spreads, or other pasta dishes for added depth.

Perfect Pasta Pairings

While this recipe is versatile, choosing the right pasta can enhance your experience. Short shapes like penne or fusilli will hold onto the creamy sauce better, while long noodles, like fettuccine or spaghetti, provide a delightful twirl on your fork. Both options can work well—just ensure you cook them to al dente for that perfect bite. The key is to keep an eye on them during the last couple of minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with whole grain or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs or preferences. Just remember to check the package for specific cooking times as these alternatives may differ from traditional pasta. The end goal is a beautifully coated dish that complements the creamy garlic essence.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Should you have leftovers, which is rare but possible, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently to revive the creamy texture without drying it out. Alternatively, you can pan-sear the leftover pasta for a deliciously crispy finish.

For a perfect presentation at the dining table, consider topping your creamy roasted garlic pasta with sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken for added protein. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give it a delightful kick, while integrating seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes will offer a fresh touch. Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create the most delicious garlicky pasta!

Ingredients

1 bulb of garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
300g pasta of your choice
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have everything ready, you're just a few steps away from enjoying a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your creamy roasted garlic pasta!

Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the garlic bulb, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes until the cloves are soft and caramelized.

Cook the Pasta

While the garlic is roasting, boil a pot of salted water and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Save a cup of pasta water before draining.

Make the Sauce

Once the garlic is done, squeeze the cloves out into a bowl, mash them, and combine with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese in a saucepan. Heat gently, adding reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, mixing thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious creation with a side salad or some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding some chili flakes for heat or sautéed mushrooms for added depth.

Ingredient Insights

Heavy cream is the star of this dish, as it provides that irresistible luscious texture that envelopes the pasta. However, if you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider using half-and-half or a creamy plant-based milk combined with a thickener like cornstarch. This will maintain the sauce's creamy consistency while reducing the calorie count.

Parmesan cheese not only adds a savory depth but also acts as a thickening agent when melted into the sauce. For those on a vegan diet, nutritional yeast is an excellent substitute to incorporate that cheesy flavor without dairy. Just adjust the quantity to suit your taste, as its flavor can be intense.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor profile, try adding a dash of white wine to the sauce after mashing the garlic. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to let the alcohol evaporate before adding in the cream and cheese. This will introduce a vinegary brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce and highlights the garlic's sweetness.

Another delicious twist is infusing your olive oil with herbs before roasting the garlic. Thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can deepen the flavor. Just remember to keep the oil at a low heat to prevent burning the herbs, which can turn bitter.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce appears too thick, don’t panic! Simply stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired creamy consistency. Remember, it’s always easier to thin a sauce than to thicken it. Start with a few tablespoons and increase gradually until you’re satisfied.

On the other hand, if your sauce seems too thin, a quick fix is to add a little more grated Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt into the sauce. Alternatively, you can give it a gentle simmer for a couple of minutes to let some moisture evaporate, concentrating the flavors nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you enjoy! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

It's not recommended to freeze this creamy dish, as the texture can change upon thawing. It's best enjoyed fresh!