There’s something irresistible about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s coated in a rich, creamy sauce with bold garlic and melted cheese. This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta recipe takes comfort food to a luxurious level—simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a cozy gathering. With a velvety garlic butter sauce and a medley of Parmesan and mozzarella, each bite delivers a savory, cheesy experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Whether you’re a pasta lover or just craving something indulgent, this recipe guarantees satisfaction without overwhelming your kitchen with complex steps or rare ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta, gather the following:
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water. Set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Base
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should remain golden and aromatic.
Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to slightly reduce and thicken. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Then, incorporate the mozzarella and stir until the sauce is rich and creamy.
Season the Sauce
Season the sauce with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet. Using tongs, gently toss the pasta until every strand is coated with the creamy garlic cheese sauce. Simmer for an additional minute to ensure the pasta absorbs some of the sauce.
Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta immediately. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Keto and Low-Carb Variations
If you’re following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, this recipe can easily be adapted:
Use Low-Carb Noodles
Replace traditional linguine with:
- Zucchini noodles (zoodles)
- Shirataki noodles
- Spaghetti squash
Alternative Dairy Options
- Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk (be mindful of consistency)
- Use keto-friendly cheeses like sharp cheddar, goat cheese, or a mix of low-lactose varieties
Extra Keto Tips
- Include sautéed spinach or kale for extra fiber
- Add cooked chicken thighs or shrimp for more protein and healthy fats
- Avoid starch thickeners; let the cheese and cream reduce naturally to thicken the sauce
Flavor-Boosting Additions
If you want to make this dish your own, try mixing in any of the following ingredients:
- Crispy bacon: Adds a smoky crunch
- Grilled shrimp or chicken: Makes the dish heartier
- Chili flakes: For a hint of spice
- Caramelized onions: Adds a deep sweetness that complements the garlic
- Sauteed mushrooms or spinach: Incorporates earthy flavors and extra nutrients
Serving Ideas
Serve this pasta alongside:
- A crisp Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette
- Warm garlic bread or cheese toast
- A glass of chilled white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
Make-Ahead Tips
While pasta dishes are always best served fresh, here’s how you can prep ahead:
- Make the cheese sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge
- Reheat sauce gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen it
- Cook pasta right before serving and toss with reheated sauce for optimal texture
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream
- Do not freeze: Cream-based sauces tend to separate and lose their creamy texture after freezing
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine
– Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and flavor
– Do not rush the sauce—let it gently simmer to allow all ingredients to meld
– Keep the pasta slightly undercooked (al dente) before tossing into the sauce to prevent it from becoming mushy
– Stir continuously after adding cheese to avoid clumps
– Add herbs like thyme or basil for an aromatic twist
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape instead of linguine?
Yes. While linguine pairs well with creamy sauces, spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or even farfalle can be used without issue.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Cook pasta fresh and toss with reheated sauce right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can this dish be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended. The cream and cheese-based sauce may separate and lose its creamy consistency when thawed.
How can I spice up the dish?
Add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or diced jalapeños to the sauce while simmering. You can also serve it with a spicy grilled protein like Cajun chicken.
Can I include vegetables in this pasta?
Absolutely. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers can be stirred into the sauce or added with the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.
Is there a way to lighten the sauce without losing flavor?
Yes. Replace half of the heavy cream with low-sodium chicken broth or whole milk. You can also reduce the cheese amounts slightly or choose part-skim mozzarella.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug. It’s rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re making it for yourself after a long day or serving it to guests at a dinner party, this pasta offers comfort and indulgence in every bite. And with the flexibility to modify it for keto, spice it up, or add your favorite proteins and veggies, it’s a go-to recipe worth repeating.