Creamy Roasted Garlic Alfredo Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that combines rich, velvety sauce with the warm, mellow flavor of roasted garlic, then this Creamy Roasted Garlic Alfredo Pasta is exactly what you need tonight. This recipe takes the classic Alfredo pasta up a notch by infusing it with the deep sweetness of roasted garlic, creating an irresistible comfort food that’s simple enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for company. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a pasta novice, this creamy dish is guaranteed to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Rich, Roasted Garlic Flavor: Roasting a whole head of garlic softens its sharpness and brings out a sweet, nutty depth that transforms the Alfredo sauce.
• Ultimate Creaminess: The combination of heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese creates a luscious, silky sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of fettuccine.
• Simple Ingredients: With pantry staples like olive oil, Italian seasoning, and parsley, this recipe is straightforward and approachable.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you want comfort food without the fuss.
• Versatile Base: This sauce pairs beautifully with proteins like chicken or shrimp, or you can enjoy it as-is for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

What’s in the Bowl

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta: The classic choice for Alfredo, providing perfect surface area for the sauce to coat.
• 1 head of garlic: Roasted until soft and caramelized, the star ingredient that makes this Alfredo truly special.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to roast the garlic and add a subtle fruity note to the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, making it luxuriously smooth.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for the best melting quality and sharp, nutty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of dried herbs including oregano, basil, and thyme to enhance the sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to balance and elevate the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of color to finish the dish.

Essential Tools for Success

• Oven-safe baking dish or foil: For roasting the garlic head evenly without mess.
• Large pot: To boil the fettuccine pasta to al dente perfection.
• Colander: For draining pasta efficiently without losing any noodles.
• Medium saucepan: To gently warm the cream and melt the Parmesan into a smooth sauce.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the sauce and scraping the roasted garlic into it.
• Cheese grater: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best texture and flavor.

From Start to Finish: Creamy Roasted Garlic Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, then wrap it tightly in foil. Roast for about 35-40 minutes until the cloves are tender and golden. Roasting garlic this way mellows its pungency and brings out a sweet, buttery flavor that is the heart of this dish.

Step 2: Cook the Fettuccine Pasta

While the garlic roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a medium saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat. Once warm, squeeze the softened roasted garlic cloves out of their skins directly into the cream. Stir well to combine and let it infuse for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Seasonings

Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground pepper. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained fettuccine to the sauce, tossing gently to coat every strand in that creamy, garlicky goodness. Heat together for a minute or two to marry the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side, and enjoy the comforting richness of this dish.

No-Store Runs Needed

• Use pantry staples like dried Italian seasoning and olive oil you likely already have.
• Substitute Parmesan with any hard, aged cheese you have if needed, but freshly grated is best.
• Frozen fresh parsley can be used if you don’t have fresh on hand.
• Have extra garlic? Try making a batch of Roasted Garlic Zucchini Hummus for a tasty side or snack.

If You’re Curious

Roasting garlic transforms its flavor from sharp and pungent to sweet and mellow, making it incredibly versatile in creamy dishes like this pasta. The gentle heat of the cream helps the roasted garlic meld seamlessly into the sauce, avoiding any harsh bites of raw garlic. Italian seasoning adds a nuanced herbal backdrop, complementing without overpowering. If you love the flavor profile here, you might want to check out the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, which uses a similar sauce base but with a protein twist.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This creamy pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can freeze the sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. It’s less ideal to freeze the pasta mixed with the sauce, as texture may suffer, so keep them separate if possible.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can substitute with linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a lighter option for the heavy cream?

You can try half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but the texture won’t be quite as rich or thick. Adding a bit of flour or cornstarch as a thickener can help compensate.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Also, roast the garlic as usual to keep that deep flavor.

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, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

Serve with These

• Roasted Garlic Zucchini Hummus – a fresh and creamy dip that pairs beautifully alongside pasta dinners.
• Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta – for when you want to add a protein-packed option to your menu.
• Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread – perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
• A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette – to balance the richness of the pasta.

Time to Try It

There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of Creamy Roasted Garlic Alfredo Pasta. The way the roasted garlic melts into the smooth, cheesy sauce is pure magic. This dish invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and share good food with those you love. Next time you want to treat yourself or impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe will be your go-to. So go ahead, preheat that oven, boil the pasta, and get ready for a cozy, delicious meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

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