Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 bulb of garlic; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 ounces fettuccine pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Recipes

I love making this Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta as a weekend treat. There's something so comforting about creamy pasta infused with the rich, sweet flavors of roasted garlic. Each time I prepare it, I find the process not only relaxing but incredibly rewarding as the aroma fills my kitchen. Paired with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon, this dish becomes a delightful indulgence that the whole family enjoys. It’s an easy way to elevate a casual Sunday dinner into something truly special.

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:45:37.116Z

When I first tried making roasted garlic pasta, I underestimated how transformative the simple act of roasting garlic could be. The robust flavor mellows into a buttery deliciousness that gives the sauce a delightful depth. After experimenting with different creaminess levels, I found that a mix of heavy cream and a splash of pasta water creates the perfect silky texture.

To make this dish even better, I like to finish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dash of lemon juice. This adds brightness and freshness that perfectly complements the creaminess. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor complemented by creamy sauce
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weekends
Satisfying yet light, ideal for family dinners

The Magic of Roasting Garlic

Roasting garlic transforms its sharp, pungent character into a sweet, mellow flavor, which is essential for this creamy pasta dish. The garlic should be soft and golden when you unwrap it; this indicates it has fully caramelized. Make sure to check it around the 25-minute mark to prevent burning—the outer layers can darken quickly if your oven runs hot.

When squeezing the roasted cloves, use the back of a spoon or your fingers to apply gentle pressure. The soft texture makes it easy to extract the sweet garlic paste, which will blend seamlessly into your sauce. This technique elevates the dish, ensuring that the garlic flavor is rich yet not overwhelming.

Finding the Right Pasta

Fettuccine is a perfect choice for this creamy sauce, as its flat shape allows it to hold onto the garlic-infused cream beautifully. However, if you're looking for alternatives, tagliatelle or even penne can work well, though the texture will vary slightly. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, aiming for that ideal al dente bite.

If you're short on time, you can even opt for fresh pasta, which cooks in just a few minutes. Keep in mind that fresh pasta may absorb sauces differently, so you might need to modify the sauce consistency slightly to keep it creamy.

Enhancing with Herbs and Citrus

Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference in this dish. While parsley is a classic garnish, consider adding some chopped basil or chives to bring an additional layer of flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can enhance the dish's complexity without overshadowing the garlic.

When zesting your lemon, be careful to only take the bright yellow part of the peel, as the white pith can introduce bitterness. The zesty brightness not only complements the creaminess but also balances the richness of the pasta, making every bite delightfully refreshing.

Ingredients

Before you get started, gather these rich ingredients to make a deliciously creamy pasta.

Ingredients

1 bulb of garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces fettuccine pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

With all the ingredients ready, we can now move on to the cooking steps.

Instructions

Let’s begin by roasting the garlic and cooking the pasta, creating a harmonious blend of flavors!

Roast the Garlic

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

Cook the Pasta

While the garlic is roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce

Once the garlic is roasted, squeeze out the cloves into a blender. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the pasta and the garlic cream sauce. If it's too thick, add reserved pasta water, tablespoon by tablespoon, until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and an additional sprinkle of lemon zest.

Your Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta is ready to be enjoyed! Pair it with a simple salad for a full meal.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to your pasta. You can also substitute half of the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy roasted garlic pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare some components in advance. Roasted garlic can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Consider making a larger batch so you can use it in other dishes, like spreads or dressings, for an instant flavor boost.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to bring back the silky texture.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with a combination of low-fat milk and Greek yogurt. This maintains the creaminess while reducing the overall fat content. Alternatively, almond or soy milk can be used for a dairy-free option, though this will alter the flavor profile.

You can also boost the nutritional value by adding steamed vegetables like spinach or broccoli to the pasta before tossing it with the sauce. This not only brings vibrant color but also adds fiber and nutrients, making the dish a little heartier.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the sauce is too thick, gradually adding reserved pasta water is the simplest fix. Start with a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired creaminess. Conversely, if your sauce is too runny, allow it to simmer for a few minutes to reduce and thicken.

Another common issue is the garlic flavor being too strong if over-roasted. To balance this, lightening the sauce with extra cream or a splash of lemon juice can help to mellow the taste while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used for a healthier option. Just cook according to package instructions.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

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

→ What can I pair with this pasta?

It pairs well with a light salad or grilled vegetables. A glass of white wine complements the flavors nicely.