Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces angel hair pasta; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Oven-Fresh Wonders

I absolutely love making Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce, especially on busy weeknights. This dish comes together in just under twenty minutes and is incredibly flavorful yet simple. The beauty of angel hair pasta is its delicate texture, which perfectly absorbs the rich garlic and Parmesan sauce. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it again and again for an easy, comforting meal that impresses without requiring much fuss in the kitchen.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:09:39.431Z

When I first made Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce, I knew I had stumbled upon a gem. The key is to sauté the garlic just until it becomes fragrant, which brings out a delicious depth of flavor without burning. I recommend using freshly grated Parmesan for the best results, as it melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a creamy texture that envelops each strand of pasta.

This dish is perfect for those nights when I want comfort food that doesn't take much time or effort. I often add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for some color and an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicate angel hair pasta paired with a rich garlic-infused sauce.
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for weeknight dinners.
A perfect balance of creamy cheese and aromatic garlic.

Mastering the Pasta

When cooking angel hair pasta, timing is everything. Aim for al dente, which typically means boiling for just 2-4 minutes. Keep an eye on the noodles; they can go from perfectly tender to mushy in seconds. Once drained, toss it with a drop of olive oil to prevent sticking before combining with the sauce.

Using a large pot for boiling is essential. It allows the pasta to move freely in the water, ensuring more even cooking. Don't forget to generously salt the water—think of it like seasoning the pasta from the inside out, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.

Perfecting the Garlic Sauce

As you sauté the garlic in butter, aim for a gentle simmer over medium heat. You want the garlic to become aromatic and slightly golden, without darkening. This process releases the essential oils for a rich flavor that deeply infuses the butter. If it starts to brown, reduce the heat immediately to avoid bitterness.

Adding the Parmesan cheese is a crucial step. It's best to use freshly grated cheese, as it melts more smoothly than pre-grated varieties. If your sauce feels too thick or sticky, this is where the reserved pasta water comes in; adding it gradually will help create a silky consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a refreshing twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus. These not only enhance the flavor profile but also add nutritional value and vibrant color to your plate. Simply toss them in during the last minute of cooking to maintain their bright colors.

If you're looking to spice things up, a dash of lemon juice or zest can brighten the dish brilliantly. This simple addition balances the richness of the sauce, providing a well-rounded flavor experience. Pairing with a crisp salad or crusty bread can also elevate your meal to new heights.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for an unforgettable dish:

Ingredients

12 ounces angel hair pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

You can add more ingredients or adjust according to your taste.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

Combine

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious angel hair pasta!

Feel free to customize the dish with additional vegetables or proteins!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the pasta. You can also substitute the butter with olive oil for a lighter version.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you might need to add a splash of olive oil or broth when reheating to regain that creamy texture.

Reheating can be done on the stove over low heat for best results, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Microwaving is convenient, but may lead to uneven heating, so always cover your dish and stir halfway through.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider swapping out the butter for olive oil. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still maintain that lovely richness. For those who want a vegan version, a plant-based Parmesan and a dairy-free butter substitute will work well here.

You can also play around with the types of cheese you use. Pecorino Romano or a combination with a bit of mozzarella can create unique flavor profiles while still providing the creaminess you crave.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Ensure you have a large enough pot for cooking the pasta, as overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly when increasing the quantity, especially for the garlic sauce. Scale the sautéing time to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn by monitoring closely and adjusting the heat accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and just toss it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas work wonderfully with this pasta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.