Fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring to a rolling boil and add pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

In the same pot, add butter or olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with garlic. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted smoothly into the sauce.

Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water. Toss pasta into pot with creamy sauce, adding reserved water if needed for creaminess.

Season with black pepper to taste. If adding spinach, stir it in until wilted. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.