Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 head of garlic; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 ounces spaghetti; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Food

I absolutely love making this Sunday Creamy Roasted Garlic Pasta; it’s become a cherished family tradition. The creaminess perfectly balances the rich, roasted garlic flavors that make this dish stand out from the usual pasta offerings. Every bite feels like a warm hug, and it's an easy way to impress guests as well. I typically serve it with a simple salad and crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce, turning a laid-back Sunday dinner into something special and memorable.

Created by

Una Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:02:36.781Z

When I first tried roasting garlic, I was amazed by how its flavor transformed into something buttery and almost sweet. This inspired me to create a pasta dish that truly celebrates garlic in all its glory. By combining it with creamy ingredients, I found the perfect balance of flavors that everyone in my family enjoys.

One of my favorite tips is to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It not only enhances the creaminess of the sauce but also adds a nice nutty depth. Trust me, using fresh ingredients makes a world of difference in this recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The rich, buttery flavor of roasted garlic is simply irresistible
Creamy texture that clings perfectly to each spaghetti strand
An easy yet elegant dish that’s perfect for family gatherings

      

The Role of Roasted Garlic

Roasted garlic is the star of this dish, bringing sweetness and depth to the creamy sauce. The roasting process mellows the sharpness of raw garlic, transforming it into a buttery, caramelized flavor profile. To ensure even roasting, make sure to cover the garlic tightly with foil; this traps steam and prevents it from drying out. The cloves should be soft and golden when done, perfect for easily squeezing into the sauce.

In addition to flavor, roasting garlic also enhances its aroma, which fills your kitchen with a comforting scent. If you prefer a more pronounced garlic flavor, consider adding an extra clove or two, adjusting to your taste. Be cautious not to over-roast it, as burnt garlic can add an unwanted bitterness to your dish.

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

Creating a silky cream sauce is all about the balance of heat and timing. After adding the roasted garlic to the cream, make sure to stir consistently while simmering on medium heat. This prevents the cream from scorching and ensures a smooth texture. You'll know it's ready when the sauce slightly thickens and begins to coat the back of a spoon.

Parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also helps thicken the sauce. Use good-quality cheese for the best results; pre-grated varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's creaminess. If you want a lighter version of the sauce, you can swap half of the heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based alternative like cashew cream for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to contrast the creaminess. Crusty bread is also a must-have for soaking up any leftover sauce—trust me, you won't want to waste a drop! If you’re looking to make this meal more substantial, consider adding grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added texture and nutrition.

Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices! Fresh basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish and introduce new dimensions of flavor. Should you find yourself with leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or additional cream to restore the sauce's consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Sunday dinner:

Ingredients

1 head of garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces spaghetti
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to prepare your ingredients before starting the cooking process to ensure a smooth experience.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious, creamy pasta dish:

Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes until golden and soft.

Cook the Spaghetti

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Sauce

Once the garlic is roasted, squeeze the cloves out into a saucepan. Add the heavy cream and simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Stir in the grated Parmesan until fully melted. Adjust with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed. Mix well until the pasta is fully coated. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Enjoy the creamy pasta with a side salad or some fresh bread!

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of spice. You can also substitute half and half for a lighter version while still achieving a delicious creaminess.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce appears too thin, try increasing the simmer time for a few additional minutes. You can also whisk in a bit more cheese, as it helps to thicken the sauce naturally. On the flip side, if it's too thick, add small amounts of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. This water is starchy and will blend in seamlessly.

Should the flavors seem muted, a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of zest can brighten the dish instantly. Taste as you go; seasoning is key to a balanced flavor profile. Remember, it's easier to add seasoning in increments than to fix an overly salty dish!

Make-Ahead Tips

For a stress-free cooking experience, consider prepping the roasted garlic a day in advance. Once cooled, it can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. This not only saves time on the day you plan to serve the pasta but also allows the garlic's flavor to deepen as it sits.

While the creamy sauce is best fresh, you can also cook the spaghetti ahead of time. Just make sure to toss it in a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When it's time to serve, reheat the pasta gently in the sauce, adding a little extra cream or water if needed to get that perfect creamy consistency again.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to serve a larger crowd, this recipe scales up easily. For every additional four servings, simply add another head of garlic, 2 ounces of spaghetti, and adjust the cream and cheese proportionately. Just keep an eye on cooking times; larger batches may require slightly longer for both the spaghetti and sauce integration.

When scaling, it's helpful to have a larger pot for boiling pasta to avoid overcrowding. This ensures the spaghetti cooks evenly and doesn’t stick together. Just remember to label and store leftovers properly if making a large batch—you'll enjoy this delightful dish just as much the next day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, you can use fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you prefer.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a creamy texture.

→ What can I pair this dish with?

This pasta pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a nice garlic bread for a complete meal.