Description
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick, rich, and comforting dish combining tender pasta with a luscious garlic cream sauce made in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, it features simple pantry staples that deliver indulgent, balanced flavors with minimal cleanup. Customize easily with veggies, proteins, or cheese to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 8 ounces dry pasta (penne or spaghetti recommended)
- 4–5 fresh garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheese and Seasonings
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes and Additions
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
- Cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon (optional)
- Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
- Red pepper flakes or smoked paprika (optional)
- Alternative cheeses such as mozzarella, cheddar, or goat cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped fresh garlic and sauté just until fragrant and barely golden. This step unlocks the aromatic base necessary for the sauce.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the heavy cream or milk. Add the dry pasta directly to the pot, stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Pasta Until Tender: Let the pasta cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. The pasta will absorb most of the liquid, resulting in a creamy sauce.
- Stir in Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix until the cheese melts thoroughly, creating a smooth, flavorful coating on the pasta.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the dish is warm and creamy.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother melt; avoid pre-grated cheese with additives.
- Do not overcook the pasta; check frequently to maintain al dente texture.
- Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust creaminess by adding more broth for a thinner sauce or more cream/cheese for a richer consistency.
- Fresh garlic is preferable over powders or jarred minced garlic for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: One Pot, Creamy Garlic Pasta, Easy Dinner, Quick Pasta, Weeknight Meal, Comfort Food, Garlic Sauce, Creamy Pasta
