Creamy Garlic Couscous

Name: Creamy Garlic Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 2 cups vegetable broth; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Cozy Inspiration

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Couscous for a delightful meal that feels both luxurious and comforting. The creamy texture paired with the rich garlic flavor transforms simple couscous into an elevated dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it's incredibly quick to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. My family can’t get enough of this dish, and I often serve it as a side with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables to create a balanced meal. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:45:36.225Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Garlic Couscous, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a rich flavor. I started by sautéing fresh garlic in olive oil, which fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Combining this with creamy ingredients really brings the dish to life, and it feels like a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

One tip I found helpful is to let the couscous sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows all the flavors to marry beautifully and ensures that each grain is perfectly tender. Serving it fresh garnished with herbs makes it even more inviting!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent creaminess meets aromatic garlic goodness
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy evenings
Versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various proteins

Understanding Couscous

Couscous is a tiny pasta made from semolina wheat, and its quick cooking time makes it an ideal choice for a swift meal. When prepared properly, couscous should be light and fluffy, allowing it to soak up flavors beautifully. For this recipe, using vegetable broth enhances its taste, making each bite flavorful. If you find yourself without vegetable broth, chicken broth can be used as a substitute without compromising much on the flavor, though it will alter the dish slightly.

The cooking process is relatively straightforward, but it's important to let the couscous rest after adding it to boiling broth. This allows it to absorb all the liquid and soften properly. If you happen to overcook it or leave it on the heat too long, the couscous can become gummy. Always monitor it and aim for a texture that’s fluffy rather than sticky for the best results.

The Art of Garlic Sautéing

Sautéing garlic is a skill that can elevate your dish remarkably. To achieve that perfect aromatic infusion, it’s crucial to use medium heat and watch closely. Garlic can go from beautifully fragrant to burnt very quickly—typically within a minute or two. My recommendation is to allow the garlic to become just golden rather than brown. This not only releases its flavor, but also prevents a bitter taste from developing.

If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic beforehand. Roasted garlic has a sweet, mellow taste that integrates seamlessly into the creamy sauce. To roast garlic, simply wrap a whole bulb in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and bake at 400°F for about 30-35 minutes until soft. This can be done ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week, making it a great prep option for busy days.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this Creamy Garlic Couscous is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your palate. For a protein boost, add grilled shrimp or chickpeas, which can turn this side into a fulfilling main dish. Additionally, vegetables like sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even steamed broccoli can bring freshness and texture to the couscous. The creaminess of the sauce complements these additions beautifully.

If you're looking to make this dish a bit lighter, consider using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture with fewer calories. Just stir it in after removing the skillet from the heat to prevent curdling. Also, this dish can be made ahead of time and stores well in the fridge; simply reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to bring back its creamy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Creamy Garlic Couscous:

Ingredients

1 cup couscous
2 cups vegetable broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

You are now ready to make your Creamy Garlic Couscous!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect dish:

Cook the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Garlic

While the couscous is resting, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream into the skillet with garlic. Cook on low for a few minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

Fluff the couscous with a fork and then add it to the skillet. Mix well to coat the couscous in the garlic cream sauce.

Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Couscous!

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover Creamy Garlic Couscous, don't worry—it stores well and can be enjoyed later. Allow the couscous to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh if possible.

When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to the skillet to help revive the creaminess, as the dish may thicken in the fridge or freezer. Warm it over low heat, stirring gently until heated through. Avoid high heat, as this can lead to sticking or burning at the bottom, ruining the creamy sauce.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Creamy Garlic Couscous turns out too thick, it's likely due to the cream or the way the couscous was prepared. To remedy this, stir in a bit more broth or water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it ends up too thin, try cooking it on low heat uncovered for a few minutes to allow some moisture to evaporate, thickening the sauce without adding more ingredients.

Should you find your garlic flavor lacking, consider incorporating roasted garlic or a sprinkle of garlic powder into the sauce while it cooks. Alternatively, if the garlic has turned bitter, balance the flavor with a small amount of sugar or honey to offset the bitterness. This can help salvage the dish while enhancing the overall garlic taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use water instead of broth?

Yes, but using vegetable or chicken broth adds more flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this vegan?

Absolutely! Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This couscous pairs well with grilled vegetables, fish, or chicken.