15-Minute Creamy Garlic Basil Pasta Recipe

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 8 ounces pasta, any type
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, finely grated
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon, zested
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
• Crushed Aleppo chile flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Stir in the pasta and return to a boil. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender but firm to the bite, about 8 to 10 minutes, or according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water.
2. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter and olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. In a small cup, stir the cornstarch and evaporated milk together until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pan with the garlic. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt. Continue simmering for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Just before serving, stir in the fresh basil leaves.
6. Serve the sauce over the cooked pasta, and garnish with a sprinkle of Aleppo chile flakes if desired.

Cook's Note

Feel free to add shrimp or another protein to your pasta for a more substantial dish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	244
Total Fat	12g (15%)
Saturated Fat	5g (27%)
Cholesterol	27mg (9%)
Sodium	359mg (16%)
Total Carbohydrates	26g (10%)
Dietary Fiber	1g (5%)
Total Sugars	7g
Protein	8g (17%)
Vitamin C	5mg (6%)
Calcium	195mg (15%)
Iron	1mg (6%)
Potassium	247mg (5%)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Disclaimer: Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amounts are based on available data. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, consult a doctor or dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Story Behind 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Basil Pasta

The 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Basil Pasta is a modern adaptation of classic Italian pasta dishes, designed to bring rich, restaurant-style flavors to a home kitchen with minimal effort. While Italian cuisine has long celebrated pasta with creamy sauces such as Alfredo and Pesto, this recipe combines the fresh, aromatic qualities of basil with the subtle tang of lemon and the richness of a light cream base. Its creation reflects a trend in contemporary cooking: fast, flavorful, and flexible meals that suit busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste.

Regional Characteristics

Although pasta originated in Italy, this recipe reflects a fusion of Italian and American influences. The use of evaporated milk instead of heavy cream makes the sauce lighter, which is common in American home cooking. Fresh basil and garlic remain true to Mediterranean flavors, while optional ingredients like shrimp or Aleppo chile flakes introduce a touch of global inspiration. This combination gives the dish a versatility that allows it to be adapted regionally across North America and beyond.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional Alfredo pasta, which relies on butter, cream, and Parmesan for a dense, rich sauce, this recipe uses evaporated milk and cornstarch to create a lighter, smoother texture. The addition of lemon zest and juice gives the dish a subtle brightness, distinguishing it from classic creamy pastas that can feel heavy. Furthermore, the fresh basil is added at the end, preserving its aromatic qualities, whereas in some similar recipes, herbs are cooked longer, losing their vibrant flavor.

Where Its Typically Served

This pasta is often enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner at home, but it is equally suitable for casual dinner parties. It pairs well with grilled proteins such as chicken or shrimp and can be served alongside roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. Many restaurants offering fast casual Italian-style cuisine might feature a similar dish on their menu, emphasizing speed, freshness, and presentation.

Interesting Facts

• The use of cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of heavy cream is a clever trick to reduce fat while keeping the sauce creamy.
• Adding lemon juice not only enhances flavor but also helps preserve the vibrant green color of the basil.
• While pasta dishes are often associated with long cooking times, this recipe proves that a full-flavored, creamy pasta can be prepared in just 15 minutes.
• The recipes flexibility has led home cooks to experiment with various proteins and vegetables, making it a customizable staple for modern kitchens.
• Though it is a contemporary creation, it draws inspiration from centuries of Italian culinary tradition, showing how classic techniques can be adapted for speed and convenience.

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