Garlic Bread Pasta

If you love garlic bread, this Garlic Bread Pasta will be your new favorite comfort food. Creamy, buttery, and loaded with rich roasted garlic flavor, this pasta dish brings everything you love about garlic bread into a warm, satisfying bowl. Finished with a crunchy toasted breadcrumb topping and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, it’s indulgent, simple, and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Garlic bread in pasta form: All the classic flavors you crave in one hearty dish.

• Creamy without heavy cream: Butter, parmesan, and roasted garlic create a luscious sauce.

• Toasted breadcrumbs: Add the perfect crunch to contrast the creamy pasta.

• Crowd-pleaser: Great for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or date night at home.

• Customizable: Easy to add proteins or vegetables if you’d like to make it a full meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces dry pasta (rigatoni recommended)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 whole heads garlic
1 cup grated parmesan
½ cup salted butter, softened
2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

Breadcrumb Topping
¾ cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons salted butter

Directions

1. Roast the garlic:
   Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut the tops off both garlic heads to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 45 minutes until golden and soft. Let cool, then squeeze the cloves from the skins.

2. Toast the breadcrumbs:
   In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add breadcrumbs and toast for 3–4 minutes until golden. Set aside to cool.

3. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

4. Make the sauce:
   In a bowl, mash the roasted garlic cloves with ½ cup softened butter, parmesan, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.

5. Combine and serve:
   Add the garlic butter mixture to the hot pasta and stir until melted and creamy. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth sauce.

6. Top and garnish:
   Spoon toasted breadcrumbs over the pasta and garnish with extra parmesan and parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, or shrimp for a heartier meal.

• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle kick.

• Go green: Stir in sautéed spinach, kale, or peas.

• Vegan option: Use vegan butter and dairy-free parmesan to make this plant-based.

• Swap the pasta: Use any pasta shape you love—penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free varieties.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store breadcrumbs separately at room temperature to keep them crispy.

Reheating: Microwave the pasta in 30-second increments until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Top with breadcrumbs just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prep the roasted garlic and toasted breadcrumbs in advance. Cook and assemble the pasta just before serving for the best texture.

What kind of pasta works best?

Short pasta like rigatoni, penne, or shells hold the sauce well. Long pasta can work too but may not capture the breadcrumbs as nicely.

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of roasting?

Roasted garlic has a milder, sweeter flavor that’s key to this dish. Pre-minced raw garlic won’t provide the same depth.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, as long as the parmesan used is vegetarian-friendly (check the label for rennet-free options).

How do I make the sauce creamier?

Add more reserved pasta water gradually while stirring the garlic butter mixture into the pasta until desired creaminess is reached.

What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute with plant-based butter for a dairy-free version, or use a mix of olive oil and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Will it still taste good without breadcrumbs?

Yes, the pasta will still be creamy and garlicky, but the breadcrumb topping adds great texture and flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a larger pot and adjust ingredients proportionally.

How long does roasted garlic last?

Roasted garlic can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week in an airtight container or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Garlic Bread Pasta is a dreamy, carb-loaded creation that combines everything you love about garlic bread with the comforting appeal of creamy pasta. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a luxurious side, this flavorful and indulgent recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation. Simple to make and bursting with roasted garlic goodness, it’s the kind of dish that tastes like a treat but feels like home.

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