One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

For a quick and comforting meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, look no further than this One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Creamy, garlicky, and loaded with Parmesan, this dish is a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. Best of all, it’s made entirely in one pot, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this pasta dish comes together in just 20 minutes and is guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal, or enjoy it as is for a bowl of cozy deliciousness.

One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta combines the creamy richness of Parmesan cheese with the aromatic warmth of garlic for a quick and delicious dinner. Made entirely in one pot, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need a comforting, satisfying meal in minutes.

Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, this pasta is a go-to for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Exciting Story

The first time I made this pasta, I was looking for something quick but comforting after a long day. With just a few pantry staples, this dish came together like magic. My family devoured it and asked for seconds, making it an instant favorite in our household. Now, it’s my go-to recipe for those nights when I want something effortless yet utterly satisfying.

Why This One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal effort.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup, more convenience.
• Creamy and Flavorful: Rich Parmesan and fragrant garlic create a perfect harmony.
• Versatile: Add your favorite proteins or veggies for a personalized touch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.

What You Need for One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Ingredients:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

1. In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Liquid and Pasta

1. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and the liquid has thickened into a creamy sauce.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan

1. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Season and Serve

1. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

1. Stir Frequently: Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
2. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it.

Substitutions and Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier dish.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas.
• Different Cheeses: Substtute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a flavor twist.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lighten the Cream: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Whole-Grain Pasta: Swap regular pasta for whole-grain or gluten-free options.
• Less Butter: Reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon or use olive oil instead.

Closing for One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

And there you have it—One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta, a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its quick preparation and rich flavors, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Let us know how yours turns out, and explore more of our one-pot recipes for even more delicious inspiration!

Frequently Asked Questions for One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

1. Can I use milk instead of cream?
   Yes, but the sauce may be thinner. For a creamier consistency, mix milk with a bit of cornstarch.
2. What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
   Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine work best, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
3. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Can I freeze this pasta?
   Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate when reheated.
5. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Use a dairy-free cream alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
7. What can I serve with this pasta?
   Pair it with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
8. Can I add wine to the sauce?
   Yes, replace 1/2 cup of broth with white wine for added depth of flavor.
9. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
   Use low heat when adding the cream and Parmesan, and stir constantly.
10. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, but use a larger pot to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.

Enjoy this creamy, garlicky pasta dish and make it your own with your favorite additions!