15-Minute Creamy Garlic Basil Pasta

This 15-minute creamy garlic basil pasta recipe delivers a rich, satisfying meal in minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, using simple ingredients to create a luscious sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Enjoy a gourmet taste without the fuss.

Gather these simple items for a delightful pasta dish.

• 8 ounces pasta, any type
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, finely grated
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon, zested
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
• Crushed Aleppo chile flakes (optional)

Make this recipe work for you with easy swaps.

• Pasta: Use any pasta shape you like. Gluten-free pasta works well too. For a healthier option, try whole wheat pasta.
• Evaporated Milk: If you don’t have evaporated milk, you can use half-and-half or heavy cream for a similar richness, though the consistency might change slightly.
• Cornstarch: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for cornstarch as a thickener. Whisk it into the melted butter and oil mixture before adding the milk.
• Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano can be substituted for Parmesan for a sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor for a dairy-free option.
• Lemon: The zest and juice add brightness. If you don’t have a lemon, a touch of white wine vinegar can add some acidity, but it won’t be the same.
• Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor. If unavailable, a small amount of dried basil can be used, but add it with the garlic.
• Aleppo Chile Flakes: Red pepper flakes can be used for heat if Aleppo is not available.

1. Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Stir in pasta and return to a boil.
2. Cook pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, 8 to 10 minutes, or according to package instructions.
3. Drain pasta, reserving 1/4 cup cooking water.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter and olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
5. Add garlic; stir just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
6. Stir cornstarch and evaporated milk together in a cup until smooth.
7. Pour the milk mixture into the pan with the garlic and oil.
8. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
9. Add Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt.
10. Simmer until the sauce is slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
11. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
12. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving.
13. Serve the creamy sauce over the cooked pasta.
14. Garnish with crushed Aleppo chile flakes, if desired.

• Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns very easily. Stir it constantly and only cook it until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Burnt garlic tastes bitter. Cook it over medium heat and remove from heat if it seems to be browning too quickly.
• Sauce Too Thick or Too Thin: The consistency of the sauce can be tricky. If it’s too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or whisk in a tiny bit more cornstarch mixed with cold water.

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or even chickpeas for a more substantial meal. Add them when you add the basil.
• Sneak in Veggies: Wilt in a handful of spinach or some sautéed mushrooms during the last minute of sauce simmering for added nutrients and flavor.

• Serve this creamy pasta with a simple side salad tossed with a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.

Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on ingredients used.

Can I make this ahead?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the creamy sauce. While you can cook the pasta ahead, the sauce is very quick to make and best assembled just before serving for optimal texture.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little liquid to loosen the sauce.

This 15-minute creamy garlic basil pasta is a weeknight savior. It proves that delicious, comforting meals don’t need to take hours. Enjoy the simple elegance and satisfying taste!

15-Minute Creamy Garlic Basil Pasta

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A rich, satisfying pasta dish made with garlic, basil, and a creamy dairy sauce. Ready in 15 minutes with simple ingredients and no heavy cream or alcohol.

• Author: basma
• Prep Time: 5
• Cook Time: 10
• Total Time: 15
• Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
• Category: Quick Dinner Recipes
• Method: Stovetop cooking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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8 ounces pasta, any type
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, finely grated
1 cup evaporated milk
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1 lemon, zested
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
Crushed Aleppo chile flakes (optional)

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Instructions

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet
Add garlic and sauté until fragrant
Stir in evaporated milk, cornstarch, and Parmesan until smooth
Add lemon zest and juice, salt, and most of the basil
Toss cooked pasta into the skillet to coat
Stir in fresh basil and optional chile flakes before serving

Notes

Use gluten-free pasta if needed
Add vegan Parmesan for vegetarian option
Optional crushed red pepper flakes for spice
Garnish with extra basil leaves and lemon wedges

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 7-8 oz)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg