Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole head of garlic; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 200g fettuccine pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Cooking

I absolutely adore making this Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta, as it brings a touch of warmth to my weekend meals. The rich, buttery flavor of roasted garlic combines beautifully with creamy sauce, making every bite a delightful experience. As I prepare this dish, the inviting aroma fills my kitchen, setting the perfect mood for a cozy family dinner. It's a simple yet elegant dish that impresses my guests and satisfies the whole family. Trust me, this is a pasta recipe you won't want to miss!

Created by

Miranda Keats

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:33:36.212Z

When I first tried my hand at this Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta, I was pleasantly surprised by how a few simple ingredients could create such depth of flavor. Roasting garlic transforms its sharpness into a sweet, mellow delight that pairs perfectly with cream. I remember experimenting with different types of pasta, and I found that fettuccine holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every forkful satisfying and creamy.

One tip I discovered is to roast the garlic until it's golden brown, as this enhances the sweetness and richness. Each clove becomes a burst of flavor that complements the pasta. My family goes wild for this dish, and it's become a recurring weekend favorite. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to bring joy to our table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce with a hint of sweetness from roasted garlic
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weekends
Comforting flavors that please everyone at the table

The Magic of Roasting Garlic

Roasting garlic transforms its pungency into a sweet, aromatic essence that elevates simple dishes. When you roast the garlic at 400°F (200°C), you'll notice it becoming soft and golden brown—this is the ideal state for blending it into your creamy sauce. The lush, buttery flavor that emerges is unparalleled, and squeezing the softened cloves out of their skins adds an indulgent richness that captures the heart of this pasta dish.

If you're short on time, you can use pre-roasted garlic, but I advise against it. Freshly roasted garlic brings a depth of flavor that store-bought simply cannot replicate. Ensure you wrap the garlic tightly in foil to trap steam, which aids in the roasting process, leading to even better flavor extraction.

The Creamy Connection

The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to the fettuccine. When adding the cream to the roasted garlic, make sure to keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from boiling. This allows for a smooth emulsification, resulting in a glossy finish that’s both decadent and visually appealing. Remember, if the sauce begins to look grainy, it's often a sign of overheating, so manage your heat carefully.

For those looking for a lighter option, consider substituting half and half or Greek yogurt for the heavy cream. While this can change the texture and flavor, it will still provide a creamy base. Just be cautious; if using Greek yogurt, add it off the heat to prevent curdling.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful pasta experience:

Ingredients

1 whole head of garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
200g fettuccine pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to use fresh garlic for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy pasta masterpiece:

Roast the Garlic

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

Cook the Pasta

While the garlic roasts, cook the fettuccine in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and reserve a cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

Once the garlic is roasted, let it cool slightly, then squeeze the cloves into a saucepan. Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well over low heat until smooth.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your Sunday dinner!

Feel free to experiment with additional toppings like crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms!

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Adding some sautéed spinach can also provide a nutritious boost.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great aspects of this creamy roasted garlic pasta is that it can be prepared in advance. You can roast the garlic and prepare the sauce a day ahead. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge, and then reheat it gently on low, stirring in a splash of pasta water to loosen it up before adding the cooked fettuccine.

The complete dish can be refrigerated for up to three days, but keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce and become drier. If you plan to make it ahead for a gathering, consider undercooking the pasta slightly to ensure it maintains texture when reheated.

Serving Suggestions

To add a burst of freshness to the rich pasta dish, consider serving it with a side of sautéed greens, like spinach or kale. These not only enhance the meal's nutritional value but also provide a color contrast on the plate. A squeeze of lemon also cuts through the richness, refreshing your palate with each bite.

For a complete dining experience, pair this pasta with a light salad or garlic bread. An arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta, adding a peppery kick that enhances the overall meal. Don't forget to keep plenty of freshly grated Parmesan handy for serving!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Any pasta works, but fettuccine is recommended for its ability to hold the creamy sauce.

→ Is there a vegan alternative?

Absolutely! Use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can roast the garlic and make the sauce ahead of time, but it's best to cook the pasta fresh before serving.

→ What can I pair with this pasta?

A fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables makes for a wonderful accompaniment to the creamy pasta.