Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta is rich, creamy, and full of garlic flavor. This dish is perfect when you want something quick, cozy, and satisfying. The linguine is coated in a smooth garlic butter sauce with melted cheese that makes every bite soft and comforting. It works great as a main meal or as a side dish for chicken or steak.
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Base
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Cream and Seasoning
Pour in heavy cream and milk. Stir gently and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in parmesan and mozzarella. Mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked linguine to the sauce. Toss well to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Cooking Notes
- Keep heat low when adding cheese to avoid separation
- Freshly grated cheese melts better
- Do not overcook garlic
- Sauce thickens more as it sits
Variations
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp
- Mix in mushrooms or spinach
- Use fettuccine instead of linguine
- Add red pepper flakes for heat
Tips
- Use unsalted butter to control salt
- Add pasta water slowly for perfect texture
- Taste before adding extra salt
- Serve immediately for best creaminess
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread
- Pair with grilled chicken
- Add a simple green salad
- Great side for steak or fish
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
FAQs
Can I use milk only?
Yes, but the sauce will be lighter.
Can I reheat leftovers?
Yes, reheat gently with a splash of milk.
What cheese works best?
Parmesan and mozzarella give best texture.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta.