Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

 

Indulge in the creamy decadence of our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, where every bite is a luxurious experience. This beloved classic gets a protein-packed upgrade, offering a range of options to tantalize your taste buds. 

Whether you crave succulent grilled chicken, flavorful shrimp, crispy bacon, or savory Italian sausage, this recipe provides the perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. Dive into a bowl of creamy goodness that's not only delicious but also satisfyingly wholesome.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or fettuccine
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 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 burn it.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese to the cream mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.

Serve the creamy garlic parmesan pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

You can add various proteins to your creamy pasta dish. Here are a few options:

• Grilled Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. Grill or pan-fry until cooked through, then slice and add to the pasta.
• Shrimp: Saute shrimp in a separate pan with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until pink and cooked through. Toss them into the pasta just before serving.
• Bacon or Pancetta: Cook chopped bacon or pancetta until crispy, then sprinkle it over the finished pasta for added flavor and crunch.
• Italian Sausage: Cook Italian sausage links or loose sausage meat in a skillet until browned and cooked through. Slice or crumble the sausage and mix it into the pasta.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, cube firm tofu and pan-fry until golden brown. Add it to the pasta along with the creamy sauce.

Choose the protein that best suits your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations!