Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g pasta of your choice (fettuccine or penne recommended); 2 whole heads of garlic; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Food

I love cooking on Sundays, and this Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta is my go-to dish for a relaxing evening. The rich flavors of roasted garlic paired with a luscious cream sauce create a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet simple. The aroma that fills the kitchen while the garlic roasts is simply irresistible, and I can guarantee it's the perfect way to end a busy week. Whether enjoyed with a loved one or alone, this dish makes any Sunday special.

Created by

Dahlia Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:29:35.434Z

When I first made this Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta, I was amazed at how something so simple could be so flavorful. Roasting the garlic transforms it into a sweet, mellow delight that pairs perfectly with heavy cream and parmesan. I've learned that patience with the cooking process pays off, especially during the roasting stage, where it develops an incredible depth of flavor.

One tip I can share is to not rush the garlic roasting; you want it to turn golden and soft, which can take a good 30 minutes. It truly makes a difference in the final dish. Sometimes, I even double the garlic when I have extra on hand to deepen the flavor even further!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelops every strand of pasta
Rich, sweet flavor from perfectly roasted garlic
Quick to make but tastes gourmet

The Role of Roasted Garlic

Roasted garlic is the star of this dish, transforming the typical pungent flavor of raw garlic into a rich, sweet profile that adds depth to the cream sauce. The caramelization achieved during roasting enhances the sweetness and mellows out the sharpness, making it a perfect companion to creamy textures. When you squeeze the roasted cloves into the sauce, you should see a velvety consistency forming, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

To ensure perfectly roasted garlic, keep an eye on the time and temperature. You want the cloves to be soft and golden, which usually takes about 30-35 minutes at 400°F (200°C). If you find that the garlic is not becoming soft enough, try wrapping it tightly in foil to retain moisture, speeding up the cooking process while ensuring even roasting.

Perfecting Your Pasta Technique

Cooking pasta to the ideal al dente texture is crucial for this dish as it allows the strands to absorb the rich sauce without becoming mushy. Boil your salted water vigorously before adding the pasta, and check for doneness a minute before the package instructions indicate. The pasta should be firm yet tender, with a slight bite when you chew it, which helps it hold up against the creamy sauce.

Make sure to reserve that crucial cup of pasta water before draining—this starchy liquid is a secret weapon in adjusting your sauce's thickness. If your sauce appears too thick after mixing in the pasta, gradually add the reserved water until you reach a glossy consistency that clings nicely to every piece of fettuccine or penne.

Customizing Your Cream Sauce

While Parmesan cheese brings a rich, savory flavor to the cream sauce, you can experiment with other cheeses to customize it. Grating in some Pecorino Romano can provide an additional sharpness, while adding a touch of cream cheese can make the sauce even more luscious and creamy. Whatever substitute you choose, make sure it's grated finely to melt uniformly into the sauce.

If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. The sauce may not be as thick, but it'll still be flavorful. Just ensure to cook it over low heat to prevent curdling, and keep stirring until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Garnishing with fresh parsley not only brightens the flavor but also adds a delightful color contrast.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful pasta experience:

Ingredients for the Pasta

400g pasta of your choice (fettuccine or penne recommended)
2 whole heads of garlic
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious pasta:

Roasting the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the tops off the garlic heads to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in aluminum foil. Roast for about 30-35 minutes until soft and golden.

Cooking the Pasta

While the garlic is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Making the Sauce

Once the garlic is roasted, squeeze the soft cloves into a saucepan. Add heavy cream and stir over low heat. Mix in grated Parmesan until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

Combining It All

Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your creamy roasted garlic pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta can be prepped ahead of time, making it an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner. You can roast the garlic the day before and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce can also be made a few hours in advance; simply reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary to restore its creamy consistency.

When it comes to storing leftovers, keep your pasta and sauce separate if possible. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much sauce and becoming soggy. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you reheat, do so gently over low heat to maintain the sauce's texture without causing it to separate.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta with a crisp salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread to complement the rich flavors of the dish. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top can introduce a lovely hint of heat that balances the creaminess beautifully. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables, like zucchini or asparagus, to add a nutritious element to your dinner.

If you're hosting a dinner, this dish makes an excellent centerpiece and can be scaled up easily. Just increase the pasta and sauce proportions according to the number of guests. On the other hand, for a personal touch, consider serving the pasta in individual bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for that restaurant-quality touch.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce ends up separating and not holding together, it's likely due to high heat or overheating the cream. If this happens, remove it from heat, let it cool slightly, and whisk it vigorously while adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help it emulsify again. To avoid this issue, ensure to keep the pan on low heat while stirring in the cheese and cream.

If you find that the flavor is lacking, don’t hesitate to adjust with some salt or pepper. Taste as you go along, and if you want to elevate the flavor, a pinch of nutmeg can add a lovely warmth to the sauce without overpowering the garlic. Remember, adjusting the seasoning based on your taste preference is key to making this dish your own.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream, and omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ What can I serve this pasta with?

This pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables on the side.