Name: Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 teaspoons garlic, minced (approximately 4 cloves); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup whole milk; 8 oz angel hair pasta; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Print Recipe· 3.8 from 14 reviews

If you are craving a pasta dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated, this Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite. The delicate strands of angel hair pasta cooked just right in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce create a perfect harmony of flavors that’s irresistibly delicious. Quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress guests, this recipe blends simple ingredients that come together in a comforting, cheesy, and utterly satisfying way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view shows uncooked spaghetti yellow sticks on a white plate placed in the middle, with a small glass pitcher of clear golden broth on the left. Below the plate is a small white cup filled with finely shredded white cheese. To the right of the plate, there is a small glass bowl with white cream and a small round white bowl containing three scoops of yellow butter and light brown minced garlic. Everything is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: the butter and garlic create a fragrant base, the chicken broth and milk build a luscious sauce, and the Parmesan cheese delivers that rich, savory punch. Together, they elevate basic pantry staples into something extraordinary and satisfying.

1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Choose freshly grated for maximum flavor and creamy meltability.
3 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps mellow the garlic’s sharpness.
4 teaspoons garlic (minced, approx. 4 cloves): Fresh garlic brings a fragrant, zesty depth to the sauce.
2 cups chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and layers of flavor to the pasta.
1 cup milk (whole milk is best): Creates a creamy texture that balances the sharp Parmesan.
8 oz angel hair pasta: Delicate strands that cook quickly and soak up the sauce beautifully.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): Introduces a hint of herbs for added complexity.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start gently melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté it for 2 to 3 minutes. This slow cooking releases the garlic’s fragrant oils without burning, laying the perfect foundation for the sauce.

Step 2: Build the Sauce Base

Pour in the chicken broth gradually, stirring to combine with the garlic butter. After that, add the milk and mix thoroughly. This combination creates a creamy yet light base that will coat every strand of angel hair pasta beautifully.

Step 3: Season the Sauce

Add salt, black pepper, and if you want an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Bring everything to a gentle boil to start melding these flavors together.

Step 4: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta in Sauce

Introduce the angel hair pasta directly into the simmering sauce. Let it cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This step allows the pasta to absorb the delicious liquid, making every bite flavorful and creamy.

Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously as the cheese melts and thickens the sauce, creating that signature creamy Parmesan coating that makes this dish so irresistible.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Once the sauce has thickened and the pasta is tender, serve right away. Feel free to sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for added richness and a beautiful presentation.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

A bunch of long, thin spaghetti noodles covered in a creamy, light beige sauce is lifted with silver tongs above a white pot filled with the same pasta. The sauce looks smooth with small bits of herbs and grated cheese, giving some texture. Small green parsley leaves are scattered around the noodles adding bright green spots. The background shows a white marbled surface with a soft focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts perfectly with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. A pinch of red pepper flakes also livens things up for those who like a little heat.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe shines paired with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and making the meal feel complete and indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this pasta in individual shallow bowls with a lemon wedge on the side to add a zesty brightness just before eating. For an elegant twist, top with toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of truffle oil to elevate the flavors even further.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it cools, so it may need a little extra milk to loosen it when reheating.

Freezing

This pasta doesn’t freeze well because the delicate angel hair texture and creamy sauce can separate and become grainy. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or store leftovers in the fridge only.

Reheating

To warm up leftover pasta, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency. Stir often to ensure even heating without clumping or drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While angel hair is perfect for this recipe due to its delicate texture and quick cooking time, you can substitute it with thin spaghetti or capellini if needed. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a vegetarian version of the Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To create a vegan version, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk, and substitute Parmesan with a vegan cheese. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor profile a bit but can still be delicious.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, gradually add more Parmesan cheese or cook the sauce a little longer on low heat to reduce and thicken it before adding the pasta.

What wine pairs well with Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta?

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy notes of this dish, cutting through the richness and refreshing the palate.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Angel Hair Pasta Recipe is a brilliantly simple way to impress yourself and others with a restaurant-quality pasta dinner in no time. Its creamy, garlicky richness balanced by the subtle flavor of Parmesan cheese makes it an absolute crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a staple in your cooking rotation you’ll turn to again and again.