Creamy garlic paneer Alfredo pasta is a comforting fusion recipe that combines the richness of Italian style Alfredo sauce with the boldness of Indian spices. It is a perfect dish for anyone who loves creamy pasta but wants something with more character and warmth. The paneer adds protein and texture, while the garlic cream sauce makes the dish feel restaurant worthy.
Start by cutting paneer into small cubes and lightly pan frying it until golden on the edges. Season it with salt, black pepper, red chili powder, and a pinch of garam masala. This gives the paneer a slightly crisp outside and a soft, rich center. You can use store bought paneer or homemade paneer, but make sure not to overcook it or it may become rubbery.
For the paneer:
- 250 g paneer, cubed
- 1 tbsp oil or butter
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
For the pasta:
- 300 g pasta, such as penne, fettuccine, fusilli, or spaghetti
- Salt for boiling water
For the sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp kasuri methi
- Salt to taste
- Pasta water as needed
For garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
- Extra parmesan
- Cracked black pepper
For the sauce, melt butter in a pan and add plenty of minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, then add cream, milk, black pepper, chili flakes, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of kasuri methi. The kasuri methi adds a subtle Indian restaurant style aroma without overpowering the Alfredo base. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, then add the fried paneer.
Cook your pasta until tender but firm, then toss it directly into the sauce. Penne, fettuccine, fusilli, or spaghetti all work well for this recipe. Add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Finish with fresh parsley or cilantro, extra parmesan, and cracked black pepper.
This dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner, especially when you want something creamy, filling, and different from regular pasta. It is also a great vegetarian option for family meals. Serve it with garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that blends comfort food with Indian flavour.
