### Irresistibly Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta: A 20-Minute Dinner Delight

When you’re in the mood for a delicious, comforting meal but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen, this **Irresistibly Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta** is your go-to solution. This dish combines rich, creamy sauce with savory Parmesan and aromatic garlic to create a pasta experience that's both quick and satisfying. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party.

#### Ingredients:

- **8 oz (225g) pasta** (such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
- **2 tablespoons unsalted butter**
- **4 cloves garlic, minced**
- **1 cup heavy cream**
- **1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese**
- **Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste**
- **1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes** (optional, for a hint of spice)
- **1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley** (for garnish, optional)

#### Instructions:

1. **Cook the Pasta*
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. **Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce*
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden (about 1-2 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. **Make the Sauce*
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream has slightly reduced and thickened.

4. **Add Parmesan Cheese*
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, stir in the crushed red pepper flakes.

5. **Combine Pasta and Sauce*
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.

6. **Serve*
- Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

#### Tips:

- **Use Fresh Parmesan* For the best flavor and texture, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated.
- **Adjust the Consistency* The pasta cooking water is starchy and helps to thicken the sauce. Add it gradually to get the perfect consistency for your sauce.
- **Add Protein* For an extra boost, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms to make it a more substantial meal.

Enjoy this **Irresistibly Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta** as a comforting weeknight dinner or a special treat. With its rich flavor and quick preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!