Pasta with Roasted Garlic Sauce

Name: Pasta with Roasted Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g pasta (spaghetti or penne); 1 head of garlic; ¼ cup olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Meal Favorites

When I first tried making pasta with roasted garlic sauce, I was amazed by how the sweet, mellow flavor of the garlic elevates the dish. The aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible, and it makes cooking feel like an art. I love how the creamy texture coats the pasta perfectly, creating a comforting meal that’s easy to whip up any night of the week. Pairing it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese takes it to another level, making it a dish that friends and family adore.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-02-04T15:41:28.324Z

I remember the first time I made pasta with roasted garlic sauce; it was for a cozy dinner with friends. As soon as I pulled the garlic from the oven and saw how beautifully caramelized it had become, I knew I was onto something special. The process of slowly roasting the garlic really brings out its natural sweetness and transforms it into a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully.

What’s great about this dish is its versatility. I often like to add in seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand, and it always turns out delicious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The roasted garlic adds a deliciously sweet and nutty flavor.
It's a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights.
You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Elevating the Flavor

The key to a luxurious roasted garlic sauce lies in the roasting process itself. When garlic is roasted, it transforms from sharp and pungent to sweet and mellow, making it a core ingredient of this dish. Ensure you choose a fresh head of garlic; the cloves should be firm and plump. If you notice any sprouts or dry spots, opt for another head for the best flavor. Roasting until the cloves are soft, around 30 minutes, will yield a beautifully caramelized taste that truly enhances the sauce.

Don't hesitate to balance the richness of the sauce with a touch of acidity. You can squeeze a bit of lemon juice into the sauce after adding the cream and cheese. This adds brightness that cuts through the creaminess, elevating the entire experience. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your taste, striking a perfect harmony between sweet roasted garlic and zesty freshness.

Perfecting Your Pasta

Choosing the right pasta shape can significantly impact your dish. While spaghetti and penne are classic choices, feel free to experiment with shapes like fusilli or farfalle for added texture. The spiral or bow tie forms hold onto the sauce beautifully. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce. Aim for a toothsome bite; this not only enhances your dish but also keeps the pasta from becoming mushy as it mingles with the creamy sauce.

Reserve that cup of pasta water! It’s an essential tool for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. When you toss the pasta with the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water at a time allows you to control the thickness. The starchy water helps marry the sauce and pasta together flawlessly. If you find your sauce is too runny, let it simmer on low heat for a few minutes to thicken up. Conversely, if it becomes too thick, gradually add some pasta water back in until it reaches your desired coating consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful pasta experience:

Main Ingredients

400g pasta (spaghetti or penne)
1 head of garlic
¼ cup olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect pasta:

Roast the Garlic

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

Cook the Pasta

While the garlic is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Make the Sauce

Once the garlic is done roasting, squeeze the cloves into a pan and mash them. Add the heavy cream and stir over low heat. Gradually mix in the Parmesan cheese until smooth, and season with salt and pepper.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Don't forget to pair your pasta with a nice salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce. It adds a nice depth of flavor without overpowering the garlic.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, I recommend storing the pasta and sauce separately if you can. This will prevent the pasta from absorbing too much sauce, which can lead to a dry dish when reheated. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply warm the sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Again, adding a bit of cream or pasta water will help revive its silky texture and flavor. Freshly cooked pasta, however, is best made fresh, as it won’t hold up well in the freezer.

Variations and Add-ins

This roasted garlic sauce is incredibly versatile. Consider adding sautéed vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for a burst of flavor and nutrition. Simply toss them in with the garlic after roasting, allowing them to absorb the garlic’s sweetness. If you prefer protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms can be excellent additions that complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

For a bit of a kick, you might incorporate crushed red pepper flakes while making the sauce. This will add a spicy edge that contrasts nicely with the sweet garlic. Alternatively, a sprinkle of smoked paprika can give a lovely smokiness, transforming the flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with herbs too; fresh thyme or a hint of oregano can add depth to the dish. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability to suit your favorite flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber and nutrients to the dish.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

It's best to freeze the sauce on its own; the pasta may become mushy when thawed.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted zucchini work wonderfully in this garlic sauce!