Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole head of garlic; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or linguine); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Collection

I absolutely love indulging in a rich and creamy pasta dish on lazy Sundays, and this Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta never fails to delight. The aroma of roasted garlic wafting through the kitchen sets the perfect mood for a cozy meal. With a few simple ingredients, I can create a comforting dish that's packed with flavor and a velvety texture. It’s the ultimate way to treat myself and my loved ones, making it a staple on our weekend dinner table.

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-14T04:13:34.785Z

When I first tried making this Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding it was. Roasting garlic brings out its sweetness, transforming what can be an overpowering ingredient into something truly delightful. I have learned that to achieve a luscious creamy sauce, incorporating a touch of pasta water at the end is key—it helps the sauce adhere beautifully to the pasta.

Over time, I’ve also discovered that adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving takes it to another level. This dish has become a favorite in my household, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a laid-back Sunday evening.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Garlicky warmth that envelops each bite
Creamy, indulgent sauce with a hint of Parmesan
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weekends

Perfecting the Roasted Garlic

Roasting garlic transforms its sharpness into a beautifully mellow sweetness. When preparing your head of garlic, ensure you cut just the top off, exposing the cloves while keeping the base intact. This helps create a steamy environment inside the foil, leading to a softer texture. You'll know it's ready when the cloves turn golden brown and offer a fragrant aroma, usually after about 30 minutes. Be careful not to over-roast it, as burnt garlic can introduce an unpleasant bitterness to your dish.

To enhance the garlic's flavors, consider infusing the olive oil with fresh herbs before drizzling it over the garlic. Adding a sprig of rosemary or thyme can elevate the dish while it roasts. Additionally, if you find yourself with extra roasted garlic, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a great addition to future dishes like soups or spreads.

Making a Velvety Sauce

When you combine the roasted garlic with heavy cream, the key is to maintain a medium heat to prevent the cream from curdling. Stir the mixture continuously until it reaches a glossy consistency before adding the Parmesan cheese. The gradual incorporation of cheese is crucial; it should melt slowly to create that luxurious texture. If your sauce appears too thick, don’t hesitate to use some of the reserved pasta water – this helps in achieving the perfect creaminess without sacrificing flavor.

If you're seeking a lighter version of this recipe, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk. Keep in mind that this may alter the richness of the sauce; to compensate, a little extra cheese can bridge that gap. Just remember to cook at a lower temperature to avoid any separation of the cream.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This creamy roasted garlic pasta pairs beautifully with a variety of protein options. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even roasted vegetables can be added for a heartier meal. For a punch of flavor, toss in a handful of spinach or arugula right before serving; they wilt beautifully in the warm sauce, adding both nutrition and vibrancy. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a slight kick, which becomes a delightful contrast to the creaminess.

If you're looking to make the dish ahead of time, you can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently before mixing with freshly cooked pasta. However, I recommend cooking the pasta separately to ensure it doesn't become mushy when reheating the sauce. This way, you can enjoy a fresh, creamy pasta dish any day of the week!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta.

Ingredients

1 whole head of garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
12 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy roasted garlic pasta.

Roast the Garlic

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

Cook the Pasta

While the garlic roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Sauce

Once the garlic is roasted, squeeze the softened cloves into a pan over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and stir, allowing the mixture to combine. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth, using reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy garlic sauce, ensuring each strand is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or incorporating sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of heavy cream, one of my go-to substitutes is a blend of Greek yogurt and a splash of milk. This combination can mimic the creamy consistency while adding a tangy depth of flavor. Just be sure to whisk it well to avoid any lumps, and add it off the heat to prevent curdling. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut cream can also work as a substitute, giving the dish a unique, fragrant twist.

In terms of pasta, while fettuccine and linguine are traditional choices for creamy sauces, feel free to experiment with gluten-free pasta or whole grain options. These variations can provide additional texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times might differ, so always check your pasta a minute or two before the package instructions suggest.

Cooking Tips

For an added layer of depth, don't skip the step of reserving pasta water. This starchy liquid is a secret weapon in creating a smooth sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Start by adding a little at a time until you achieve the desired texture; it can transform a thick sauce into something luxurious and silky. You might want to have a measuring cup on hand to avoid guessing amounts.

When draining your pasta, shake it gently to remove excess water but avoid rinsing it. Rinsing will wash away the starch that helps the sauce adhere, resulting in a less cohesive dish. Instead, be quick to combine the pasta with the sauce while it's still hot so that the flavors meld perfectly.

Storage Recommendations

Leftover creamy roasted garlic pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. This prevents the dish from drying out and maintains its creamy consistency.

If you're planning to freeze the pasta, remember that the texture may change once thawed, so it's better to freeze just the sauce. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion, and it will keep well for up to three months. Just cook fresh pasta when you're ready to enjoy it again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will give you a nuttier flavor and additional fiber.

→ What can I add for protein?

Grilled chicken or shrimp make excellent additions if you want to include more protein in this dish.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Is there a vegan alternative?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly option.