Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) is the ultimate comfort dish for when you crave something creamy, flavorful, and quick to make. With tender pasta simmered directly in a garlicky, buttery sauce and finished with plenty of Parmesan cheese, it’s a rich and satisfying meal that comes together with minimal cleanup.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. I once stirred in a handful of spinach and grilled chicken for a heartier version, and it turned out restaurant-worthy. Whether you’re making it as a main course or a side dish, this one-pot pasta delivers bold flavor, silky texture, and a cozy, home-cooked feel in under 30 minutes.
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Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!)
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pot dish made with simple ingredients like garlic, butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s rich, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes — the perfect easy weeknight meal or side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (do not brown).
- Add chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer.
- Add uncooked pasta and stir to separate noodles. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream (if using) until sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture and flavor — pre-shredded cheese may clump.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or broccoli to make it a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
The base of the dish—choose your favorite shape for best texture.
Butter
Creates a rich base and blends perfectly with garlic and Parmesan.
Garlic
Freshly minced for that irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
Chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
Used instead of water to cook the pasta for maximum flavor.
Heavy cream (or half-and-half)
Adds creaminess and binds the sauce together.
Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated for a nutty, salty finish that defines the dish.
Olive oil
Prevents the butter from burning and adds smoothness.
Salt and black pepper
Balances and enhances every layer of flavor.
Fresh parsley
For garnish and a pop of freshness.
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Adds a touch of heat to balance the creamy sauce.
Directions
In a large pot or deep skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
Add uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to prevent sticking, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens into a silky coating. Add black pepper and red pepper flakes to taste.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Equipment needed
- Large pot or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board (for parsley and garlic)
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes 10 minutes, cooking requires 15 minutes, making the total time about 25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
Variations and Customizations
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Add diced grilled or pan-seared chicken for extra protein.
Shrimp Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Sauté shrimp in garlic butter, then toss with the pasta.
Spinach & Mushroom Version
Add sautéed spinach and mushrooms for a veggie-packed meal.
Lemon Garlic Pasta
Stir in lemon juice and zest for a fresh, zesty twist.
Cajun Garlic Pasta
Add Cajun seasoning for smoky, spicy flavor.
Broccoli Garlic Pasta
Mix in steamed or roasted broccoli for extra texture and nutrition.
Truffle Parmesan Pasta
Drizzle truffle oil over the finished dish for an indulgent flavor.
Low-Carb Version
Use zucchini noodles or hearts of palm pasta instead of traditional pasta.
Bacon Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Add crispy bacon bits for a salty, smoky crunch.
Extra Creamy Version
Double the cream and Parmesan for an ultra-rich sauce.
FAQs
Do I cook the pasta separately?
No, the pasta cooks directly in the broth, soaking up all the flavor.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, though the sauce will be lighter—use whole milk for best results.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What pasta shape works best?
Short shapes like penne or rotini work well, but long noodles like spaghetti are also great.
Can I add protein?
Absolutely—grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage all pair beautifully.
What if my sauce is too thin?
Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
How do I prevent garlic from burning?
Cook it on medium heat and add liquid before it browns.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, as cream sauces can separate when frozen.
What side dishes pair well?
Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) is a creamy, comforting meal that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. With buttery garlic, rich Parmesan, and perfectly cooked pasta—all made in one pot—it’s quick, satisfying, and ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you keep it classic or add your favorite protein or veggies, this dish will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
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