Creamy Garlic Couscous

Name: Creamy Garlic Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

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I absolutely adore this creamy garlic couscous recipe; it's rich, comforting, and oh so easy to whip up. When I first tried making couscous, I had no idea how versatile it could be! Infusing it with garlic and a creamy base not only elevates the flavor but also creates a delightful texture that complements any meal. It's become my go-to side dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Give it a try, and I guarantee you’ll be hooked.

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:45:41.699Z

When I first ventured into the world of couscous, I was amazed at how it transformed with just a few simple ingredients. This creamy garlic version quickly became my favorite! I love how the garlic adds depth and warmth, while the creamy texture binds everything together beautifully. You'll find that using fresh garlic really lifts the flavor, making the dish irresistible.

The secret to getting that creaminess just right is slowly adding the stock and stirring constantly. This allows the couscous to absorb all the flavors, creating a luscious dish that pairs perfectly with grilled vegetables or roasted chicken. Trust me, this method works magic!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that's comforting and satisfying
Garlic flavor that elevates every bite
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

The Creamy Base

The success of this creamy garlic couscous lies in the heavy cream's rich texture, which transforms dry couscous into a luxurious side dish. I recommend using full-fat heavy cream, as it creates that velvety consistency that makes each bite satisfying. If you're looking for a lighter version, half-and-half can be used, but the creaminess might slightly diminish. Keep an eye on the amount you add; I usually start with a half cup and adjust based on my taste preference.

To further enhance the creamy texture, consider adding a tablespoon of softened cream cheese or mascarpone cheese to the mixture after the couscous has fluffed up. This adds another layer of richness that pairs beautifully with the garlic flavor. Just be sure to blend it in thoroughly to avoid clumps.

Garlic's Role in Flavor

The garlic in this recipe contributes not only its distinct aroma but also a depth of flavor that complements the creaminess of the dish. When sautéing the garlic, it should be cooked until it's fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. This usually takes about one minute over medium heat. Be cautious not to burn it, as burnt garlic can lead to a bitter taste that will overpower the dish.

Additionally, if you're a garlic lover, consider increasing the amount to four or five cloves for a bolder flavor profile. Alternatively, roasted garlic can be a wonderful swap; it brings a sweeter, more mellow taste that balances beautifully with the heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy garlic couscous makes an excellent side for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or rich sauces. To elevate your meal further, try pairing it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top, which adds a salty contrast to the creaminess. To add an extra layer of flavor, consider tossing in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach right before serving.

For a make-ahead option, prepare the couscous and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to revive the creaminess. This dish also freezes well; just remember to cool it completely before placing it in airtight containers.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious dish:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy garlic couscous:

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the vegetable or chicken broth until it comes to a gentle simmer.

Sauté Garlic

In another pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Cook the Couscous

Add couscous to the pot with garlic and stir for about 1 minute. Then, pour in the simmering broth, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes.

Add Cream

After 5 minutes, uncover and fluff the couscous with a fork. Stir in heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm as a delicious side dish!

Enjoy your flavorful creamy garlic couscous!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Troubleshooting Couscous

If you find your couscous is too sticky, it may be due to an excess of moisture during the cooking process. Ensure you're measuring the broth and couscous correctly—typically, the ratio is 2:1 for liquid to couscous. When fluffing, using a fork instead of a spoon helps separate the grains, ensuring a light texture.

On the other hand, if the couscous seems too dry, it could benefit from a little more cream or broth added during the stirring phase. Remember, you can always adjust the consistency by adding liquid in small increments.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a healthier twist, try substituting the heavy cream with unsweetened plant-based alternatives like almond or coconut cream. These options provide a unique flavor profile, imparting a subtle nutty or sweet taste. Just be aware that coconut cream can add a stronger flavor, which may or may not appeal depending on your dish's pairing.

For a dairy-free version, you can swap regular broth with a high-quality vegetable broth and use coconut milk in place of heavy cream. This combination retains the creamy texture while keeping the dish suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. To increase servings, maintain the 2:1 liquid to couscous ratio. For example, if you want to serve 6 people, simply double the ingredients to 2 cups of couscous and 4 cups of broth. Just ensure you're using a sufficiently large pot to maintain even cooking.

For a quick weeknight meal, consider adding cooked protein such as shredded chicken or shrimp directly into the couscous toward the end of cooking. This transforms the side dish into a hearty main, enhancing both flavor and nutritional value.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Consider adding sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure that you have a larger pot to accommodate the increased quantities.