1-First Step: Preparation and Mise en Place Start by grating 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and let it sit at room temperature for easy melting. Mince 4 cloves of fresh garlic and measure out your other ingredients like 3 tablespoons of butter, 2 cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of milk. This setup helps everything move smoothly once you begin cooking, reducing stress in the kitchen.

2-Second Step: Sauté the Garlic Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it smells fragrant. Stir gently to avoid burning, as this sets the flavorful base for your sauce. If you’re adding optional seasonings like 1/4 teaspoon each of onion powder, oregano, thyme, parsley, and pepper, mix them in now for extra depth.

3-Third Step: Build the Sauce and Boil Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and stir in 1 cup of milk slowly, bringing the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Keep stirring to combine everything evenly, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step creates the liquid that will cook the pasta and form the creamy sauce, so watch the heat to prevent it from bubbling over.

4-Fourth Step: Add and Cook the Pasta Once boiling, add 8 oz. of angel hair pasta, breaking it in half if needed to fit in the pan. Simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking and ensuring it cooks evenly. Angel hair pasta is delicate, so set a timer to avoid overcooking and achieve that perfect al dente texture.

5-Fifth Step: Finish with Butter and Cheese Reduce the heat to low, then add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and toss the pasta to coat it thoroughly. Turn off the heat and gradually stir in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce turns smooth and creamy. This method thickens the sauce naturally as it stands, so give it a minute to settle before serving.

6-Final Step: Garnish and Serve Garnish your creamy garlic Parmesan pasta with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it right away for four people, perhaps alongside grilled proteins like chicken or shrimp for a fuller meal. This step not only adds visual appeal but also ensures the dish is at its tastiest when enjoyed warm. To give you a quick overview of the nutritional breakdown per serving, here’s a table based on the recipe’s details: