Creamy Garlic Pasta with Cream Cheese – Quick & Easy Dinner

There’s something magical about a bowl of creamy garlic pasta.

It’s comforting, satisfying, and just the kind of dish I turn to after a long day.

This creamy garlic pasta with cream cheese has quickly become a staple in my kitchen — simple ingredients, quick prep, and incredibly rich flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, it never fails to impress.

Let me show you how to make it irresistibly creamy and full of garlicky goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’m all about comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is ready in about 30 minutes and turns humble pantry staples into a silky, cheesy, garlicky dream.

The sauce is rich thanks to the cream cheese, savory from parmesan, and has a subtle kick of black pepper.

It clings perfectly to any pasta shape you love.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Pasta (any shape): Choose your favorite — penne, spaghetti, farfalle. It all works!

Butter: Adds richness and helps bloom the garlic.

Garlic: Use fresh and mince it finely for the most flavor.

Cream cheese: The base of our luscious sauce.

Parmesan cheese: For nutty, salty depth.

Reserved pasta water (or broth): Loosens and emulsifies the sauce perfectly.

Black pepper & salt: Season to taste.

Parsley: For a touch of freshness and color.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use room temperature cream cheese so it melts more easily.

Don’t brown the garlic — just sauté until fragrant to avoid bitterness.

Save your pasta water! It’s full of starch and helps bind the sauce.

Taste as you go — parmesan is salty, so you may not need much extra salt.

 

How to Make Cream Cheese Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add a generous pinch of salt.

Cook your pasta until just al dente, following package directions.

Right before draining, scoop out 1–2 cups of the starchy cooking water to use in the sauce.

Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly — about 30 seconds — just until fragrant. Don’t let it brown!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Lower the heat slightly and whisk in the cream cheese along with 1 cup of the reserved pasta water.

Whisk until the cream cheese fully melts and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Seasoning

Stir in the grated parmesan and whisk until it melts into the sauce.

Season with black pepper and a pinch of salt (taste first — parmesan adds plenty of saltiness).

Remove from heat once smooth and velvety.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta and chopped parsley directly to the skillet with the sauce.

Use tongs to gently toss until the sauce evenly coats the pasta.

Add more pasta water, a little at a time, if the sauce feels too thick.

What to Serve It With

This pasta is a meal on its own, but I love pairing it with:

Garlic bread or crusty baguette

Grilled or roasted chicken

A fresh green salad with vinaigrette

Steamed or roasted vegetables (like broccoli or asparagus)

Variations / Substitutions

Add protein: Toss in cooked shrimp, chicken, or crispy bacon.

Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.

Go herby: Stir in fresh basil, oregano, or chives.

Dairy-free option: Use a plant-based cream cheese and dairy-free parmesan.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezing is not ideal as the cream cheese sauce may separate.

FAQs

Can I use spaghetti instead of shaped pasta?
Yes! Spaghetti or linguine works beautifully with this creamy sauce.

What’s the best substitute for pasta water?
If you forgot to reserve pasta water, use vegetable or chicken stock.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or creamy.

Is this dish spicy?
Nope! It’s mild and comforting, but you can spice it up with chili flakes.

Can I add vegetables to this?
Absolutely! Try baby spinach, mushrooms, or steamed peas.

How can I make it more garlicky?
Add an extra clove or two of garlic, or stir in a touch of garlic powder.

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce earlier and warm it just before serving.

Final Thoughts

This cream cheese garlic pasta is my go-to when I want something quick, cozy, and satisfying without much effort.

It always hits the spot — cheesy, garlicky, and silky smooth.

If you’re looking for a low-fuss dinner that feels indulgent, this one’s for you.

Serve it straight from the skillet with a sprinkle of parsley and dig in!