Name: Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine pasta; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Reserved pasta water as needed

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If there’s one pasta dish that feels like a warm, cheesy hug in a bowl, it’s definitely Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine. Imagine tender strands of linguine tangled in a rich, buttery sauce bursting with garlic, oozy melted cheese, and a hint of spice. The whole experience is pure comfort food taken to a luxurious level—perfect for a cozy night in or a spectacular dinner with friends.

Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine is how a short list of classic ingredients can deliver such indulgent flavor and texture. Each one has a purpose, from the deep savoriness of fresh garlic to the silky finish of melted cheese, making every bite unforgettable.

12 oz linguine pasta: The backbone of this recipe, linguine’s flat, wide shape clings to the creamy sauce beautifully.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter forms the luxurious base of the sauce, lending gorgeous richness.
4 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic infuses every drop of the sauce with aromatic, zesty flavor.
1 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream creates that signature velvety texture—don’t substitute for that lush mouthfeel!
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan gives the sauce its salty, nutty depth and creamy silkiness.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts into delightful strings, adding to the luscious creaminess.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Simple seasoning is essential to make all the flavors sing.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just a touch brings warmth and earthiness to the finished pasta.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick! Optional, but highly recommended for contrast.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley brings color and a welcome pop of herbal brightness.
Reserved pasta water as needed: Don’t skip this step—it helps the sauce cling and stay smooth.

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook until just al dente—firm to the bite, but not hard. Make sure to reserve about a cup of that starchy pasta water before you drain the noodles; you’ll use it to coax the perfect sauce texture in the final step.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

While your pasta cooks, set a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and gently sauté for one to two minutes, stirring frequently. Don’t let it brown—just cook until it smells irresistibly fragrant, setting the stage for the sauce’s deep, buttery base.

Step 3: Simmer the Cream

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring everything together. Let it simmer for two to three minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cream to take on a subtle hint of garlicky, buttery goodness. You should see tiny bubbles forming around the edges—this is your cue it’s ready for the cheese.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Whisk in the fresh Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring patiently until both are completely melted and the sauce is smooth. This transformation is where all of that Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine magic truly happens. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of spicy red pepper flakes if you’d like.

Step 5: Finish with Linguine and Pasta Water

Now the pasta joins the party! Add the drained linguine to your skillet and toss to coat every strand with that dreamy, cheesy sauce. If the sauce seems a bit thick, drizzle in reserved pasta water little by little until it reaches glossy, silky perfection. Let everything cook together for another minute or two so the flavors are fully woven together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, shower the Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with plenty of freshly chopped parsley. Spoon onto plates while piping hot and watch those long strands of pasta disappear fast!

How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine

Garnishes

Generously sprinkle extra grated Parmesan and chopped parsley over each serving—the cheese melts lovingly into the top, and the parsley adds a burst of green freshness. For the ultimate finish, a crack of black pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes can be sprinkled on each plate just before serving.

Side Dishes

Pile your Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine high and pair it with crisp garlic bread or a bright, lemony salad to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also make a great, colorful addition to the dinner table.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in a wide bowl for a cozy weeknight dinner or twirl portions into elegant nests for presentation at a dinner party. For added protein, top with sliced grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. You can even portion it into mini ramekins for an appetizer-sized bite at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (although they tend to disappear fast!), store the Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep beautifully for up to three days, and the flavors will deepen and mingle even more overnight.

Freezing

While this dish is at its best fresh, you can freeze it if you wish. Cool it completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Keep in mind the creamy sauce may change texture slightly once thawed, but a gentle reheat with a splash of milk can bring it back to life.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine slowly over low heat in a skillet, adding a spoonful of milk or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently and heat just until warmed through—you don’t want the cheese to separate!

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While linguine is classic, this sauce hugs fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne beautifully. Just choose a shape that lets the luscious sauce cling to every bite.

What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from clumping?

Always use freshly grated cheese and whisk it in gradually on low heat. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can make the sauce grainy rather than smooth.

Is there a lighter option for the cream?

You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream if you’d like to reduce calories. The sauce will be a bit thinner, but still creamy and tasty—just expect a slightly less indulgent texture.

How can I add protein?

For an even heartier meal, top your Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Each option works beautifully with the rich, cheesy sauce.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular linguine for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep an eye on the cook time, as gluten-free pastas sometimes require less boiling, and be sure to reserve some cooking water as usual for the sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something irresistible about Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine—it’s pure comfort and elegance in every forkful. Whether you’re treating yourself or spoiling your loved ones, this dish promises to impress. I hope you give it a try, make it your own, and enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!

Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Recipe

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4.8 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this delectable Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine. A rich and flavorful pasta dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz linguine pasta

Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Reserved pasta water as needed

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Instructions

Cook the Linguine: Boil linguine until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
Prepare the Sauce: Sauté garlic in butter, add cream, then whisk in cheeses until smooth. Season with salt, peppers.
Combine: Toss cooked linguine in sauce, adding pasta water to adjust consistency. Cook briefly until well combined.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.