Name: Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 loaf Italian or French bread; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 pound pasta (penne, spaghetti, rigatoni, or your favorite shape); 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter; 8 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional); Red pepper flakes, for serving (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever wished your favorite garlic bread could somehow magically merge with a creamy, comforting bowl of pasta, this is your dream come true! The Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe brings together everything you adore about classic Italian flavors: the addictive crunch and savoriness of homemade garlic bread crumbs, a luscious garlic cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed together into a dish that truly feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table on a weeknight or jazzing up your next potluck, this recipe guarantees there won’t be leftovers!

Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple yet essential, each ingredient in this Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe plays a starring role—whether it’s lending bold flavor, offering texture, or brightening up the finished dish. This is comfort food made from those pantry and fridge staples you probably already have at home, just waiting to be transformed into something special!

Day-old Italian or French bread: Let it dry out so it becomes delightfully crunchy once baked—slice it thick for rustic, hearty crumbs.
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Unsalted lets you dial in the seasoning perfectly; butter soaks into the crumbs, making them rich and irresistibly golden.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the breadcrumbs their signature, mouthwatering kick—don’t hold back!
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: This brings nutty, salty warmth; always grate fresh if you want the ultimate melting magic.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For a pop of color and fresh, herbal lift; it makes the whole dish feel extra vibrant.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds those classic Italian vibes—earthy, aromatic, and totally necessary.
½ teaspoon salt: Just enough to balance the cheese and butter—taste and add more if your Parmesan needs a lift.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked is best for that subtle heat and fragrance.
1 pound pasta (penne, spaghetti, rigatoni, or any favorite): Choose what you love—tubes hold breadcrumbs beautifully, but any shape works for soaking up the sauce.
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter: This creates the base of your creamy sauce—it’s as indulgent as it sounds!
8 cloves garlic, minced: Double down on garlic for a layered flavor explosion in the sauce and crumbs.
1 cup heavy cream: For decadent, cloud-like creaminess; you can swap for half-and-half if you want it a little lighter.
1 cup milk: Thins the heavy cream slightly so the sauce clings perfectly, not heavily.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving): The sauce’s salty, umami-rich backbone—don’t skimp!
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste: Season and taste as you go for a balanced sauce every time.
¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: For just that extra touch of warmth and bite in the sauce.
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): A finishing sprinkle that makes each serving feel composed and lively.
Red pepper flakes, for serving (optional): Bring the heat! Offer alongside for anyone who loves a spicy finish.

How to Make Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Make the Garlic Bread Crumbs

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), giving it time to get nice and hot for crisping the breadcrumbs. Slice your day-old bread into thick, rustic slices. Blitz them in a food processor (or smash in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin) until you have chunky, coarse crumbs—you’ll want texture here, not powder! Melt the butter and gently sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, then combine with the bread, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a big bowl. Toss so everything is coated, then spread onto a baking sheet. Bake for about 8-10 minutes, stirring once, until golden and crisp. Let the crumbs cool completely to preserve that priceless crunch.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Grab your favorite pasta shape and boil it up in a big pot of generously salted water—nothing’s more disappointing than bland pasta, so go bold here. Cook until al dente (firm, but not hard), which gives you that ideal toothsome bite. Don’t forget to scoop out a cup of pasta water before draining—the starchy liquid is gold for sauce-making. Set the drained pasta aside; there’s no need to rinse—it’s better when the sauce can grip onto all that starch.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same pot (less mess, more flavor), melt the butter over medium heat. Add all that beautiful minced garlic and sauté for a minute or two, just until it smells amazing—avoid browning, or it can turn bitter. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, bring just to a simmer, and stir in the grated Parmesan. Keep stirring as the cheese melts and the sauce gets glossy and lush. Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Let the sauce coat the back of a spoon—it should be dreamy but not too thick.

Step 4: Toss Pasta, Sauce, and Breadcrumbs Together

Add your drained pasta right into the pot with the sauce, tossing to give every noodle a creamy embrace. If the sauce gets too thick, splash in reserved pasta water a little at a time until it’s silky and perfect. Now, sprinkle in half of your cooled garlic bread crumbs and fold them through—you’ll see how they transform the pasta, adding insane flavor and texture. Dish up into bowls, then finish with extra breadcrumbs, parsley, red pepper flakes, and a shower of Parmesan. Serve immediately while everything’s at peak deliciousness!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

For the prettiest (and tastiest) presentation, always save some fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and the most golden, toasty breadcrumbs for sprinkling on top right before serving. This adds color, crunch, and an intensely inviting aroma. Keep a bowl of red pepper flakes at the table for those who love a peppery punch—they really bring out the garlic and cheese flavors!

Side Dishes

Since this dish is already a fabulous carb-fest, keep side dishes light and zesty. A crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette or straightforward roasted vegetables (think broccoli, asparagus, or even blistered cherry tomatoes) are wonderful partners. A simple tomato salad balances the richness with refreshing acidity, or you could even serve a tiny bowl of olives or marinated artichokes alongside for a Mediterranean vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling a little extra? Serve Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe in a large, shallow platter family-style, making a dramatic, inviting centerpiece. For special occasions, try plating individual portions in small bowls topped with an artful mound of breadcrumbs and a twist of cracked pepper. Or get playful and offer baked Parmesan cups filled with pasta and breadcrumbs for a dinner party hit—everyone loves an edible bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. The breadcrumbs will soften a bit, but the flavor will deepen and become even more garlicky overnight. Store any extra breadcrumbs separately in a sealed container at room temperature to keep them crispy for sprinkling later.

Freezing

While this creamy pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it in a pinch. Place cooled portions in airtight freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. For the best results, freeze breadcrumbs separately—defrost both overnight in the fridge before reheating. The sauce may separate a little, but a splash of milk and gentle reheating will help bring it back together.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Stir in extra reserved breadcrumbs just before serving, so you get that signature Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe crunch, even on day two. Avoid overheating, which can cause the sauce to split.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of making my own?

Fresh, homemade bread crumbs truly take the Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe over the top, but if you’re short on time, you can use good quality panko or Italian-style breadcrumbs. Just sauté them with garlic and butter until golden, then proceed with the Parmesan and herbs.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Penne and rigatoni are fan favorites since their hollow centers and ridges pick up loads of sauce and breadcrumbs. However, spaghetti or bucatini offer a classic comfort, too. Use whatever you (or your pantry) love most! The Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe is all about flexibility.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or gluten-free?

Absolutely! The Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe is already vegetarian as written. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread for the crumbs and your favorite gluten-free pasta—everything else remains deliciously unchanged.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for the heavy cream. The sauce will be a bit less rich but still creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try unsweetened cashew cream or a rich oat milk plus vegan butter and cheese.

Can I make the breadcrumbs in advance?

Yes! The garlic bread crumbs keep beautifully. Store cooled, completely dry crumbs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They’re also fantastic sprinkled on soups, salads, or anything that needs an extra bit of crunch and flavor, not just Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe is pure comfort with a twist—a dish that’s perfect for treating yourself, but impressive enough to wow any dinner guest. Give it a go and don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving the garlicky, crunchy, creamy magic again and again. Happy cooking, and enjoy every last bite!

Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 11 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Bread Pasta recipe combines the beloved flavors of garlic bread with creamy pasta for a comforting and indulgent meal. Rich garlic butter breadcrumbs add crunch and flavor to a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta shape. Garnished with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes, this dish is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

Instructions

Prepare the Garlic Bread Crumbs
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice bread and make breadcrumbs. Melt butter, sauté garlic, and combine with other ingredients. Bake until golden and crispy.
Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package directions, reserving pasta water. Drain pasta without rinsing.
Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
Melt butter, sauté garlic, add cream and milk, then stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Breadcrumbs
Add pasta to sauce, mix in half of garlic breadcrumbs, adjust consistency with pasta water, then serve immediately garnished with remaining breadcrumbs, parsley, and red pepper flakes.

Notes

You can customize the recipe by adding cooked protein like chicken or shrimp.
For a vegetarian option, consider adding roasted vegetables to the pasta.
To make the dish spicy, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking, Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian