10-Minute Comfort Food Pasta

Description

This 10-Minute Comfort Food Pasta is a fast, creamy, and cozy meal perfect for busy days. Made with pantry staples, it delivers rich flavor in just minutes — ideal for lunch, dinner, or late-night cravings.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rotini, spaghetti, or shells)
• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup pasta cooking water (as needed)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Cooked chicken or shrimp
• Bacon bits
• Spinach or mushrooms
• Cherry tomatoes

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Make the sauce
   In a pan over medium heat, melt butter (or heat olive oil). Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add cream
   Pour in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Add cheese
   Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Combine pasta and sauce
   Add drained pasta to the pan. Toss to coat, adding pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Finish and serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley or basil and serve hot.

Serving Ideas

Serve with:

• Garlic bread
• Side salad
• Roasted vegetables

Tips for Extra Flavor

• Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness
• Stir in cream cheese for extra creaminess
• Add chili flakes if you like heat
• Use grated Romano or Asiago instead of Parmesan