If you’ve been searching for a comforting yet effortless meal to add to your rotation, this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s rich, velvety, and packed with flavors from garlic and Parmesan cheese, all cooked in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or feeding friends with minimal fuss, this dish transforms simple pantry staples into a luscious pasta experience that’s both satisfying and soul-warming.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients, each selected to enhance flavor, creaminess, and ease. From the robust garlic that infuses the base to the creamy Parmesan that ties it all together, these essentials work in perfect harmony.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the garlic without burning it.
- Garlic cloves, minced: The star flavor, providing an aromatic punch throughout the dish.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Bring a gentle heat, perfect if you like a little kick to balance the creaminess.
- Chicken broth: Offers a savory depth and forms the flavor base for the cooking liquid.
- Milk: Gives the sauce its creamy texture without overwhelming richness.
- Fettuccine or spaghetti: The pasta choice that soaks up all the creamy goodness perfectly.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melted into the sauce, it lends nuttiness and thickens the creaminess.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and brighten the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh, herbal finish that adds a pop of vibrant color.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or a deep-sided skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and gently sauté it for about a minute until it releases that irresistible aroma. If you love a bit of spice, this is the perfect moment to sprinkle in red pepper flakes, letting their warmth mingle with the garlic.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Bring to Simmer
Next, pour in the chicken broth and milk. These two liquids blend to create the creamy sauce base for your pasta. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat — this gentle bubbling is essential to start cooking the pasta soon after.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Now, add your chosen pasta directly to the simmering liquid. Stir occasionally to keep the strands from sticking together. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 10 to 12 minutes, until it’s perfectly al dente — tender with just a touch of firmness.
Step 4: Incorporate Parmesan and Season
Once the pasta is cooked through, turn the heat down to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely, turning the broth into a creamy, luscious sauce. At this stage, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, balancing the rich flavors exactly how you like them.
Step 5: Let the Sauce Settle
Remove the pot from heat and give the pasta a couple of minutes to sit. This resting time lets the sauce thicken slightly and cling beautifully to every strand of pasta, delivering maximum creaminess with each bite.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before digging in, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. This simple garnish brightens the dish visually and adds a delicate herbal note that contrasts wonderfully with the rich sauce.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or even some extra grated Parmesan just before serving enhances the visual appeal and freshness of the dish. For a little texture contrast, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a handful of toasted pine nuts can also elevate the plate beautifully.
Side Dishes
This creamy garlic pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, such as arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. A warm, crusty bread or garlic knots are perfect companions to soak up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with a final dusting of cracked black pepper and a small drizzle of truffle oil if you’re feeling fancy. You can also add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms on top to turn it into a complete feast that impresses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta will absorb more sauce over time, so it may thicken as it sits.
Freezing
Because of the creamy nature, freezing this pasta isn’t ideal as the texture may change when thawed. If you do freeze it, store in a tightly sealed container and try to consume within one month to preserve quality.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently until warmed through and creamy again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or spaghetti work beautifully, you can substitute with penne, linguine, or other long pasta shapes. Just adjust cooking time if needed to ensure al dente texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe?
Yes! Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep it completely vegetarian and just as flavorful. The cheese and garlic will continue to provide richness and depth.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free variation, swap the milk with a creamy plant-based milk like oat or cashew, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. It won’t be quite the same, but still tasty and creamy.
How spicy is the pasta with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that complements the garlicky creaminess without overwhelming it. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or leave it out entirely for a milder dish.
Can I add protein to this pasta?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits make great additions. Just cook the protein separately and fold it in at the end or serve on top for a heartier meal.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe is the kind of comforting, cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Easy to make with minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something indulgent without the fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it, and make it one of your favorite go-to meals!
Print
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 25m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and easy meal featuring tender pasta cooked directly in a flavorful mixture of chicken broth, milk, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. With just one pot to clean, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner option that combines creamy, garlicky goodness with a hint of spice from optional red pepper flakes and freshness from parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquids
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
Pasta and Cheese
- 12 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large pot or deep-sided skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering and ready for sautéing.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned. Add red pepper flakes now if you desire a spicy kick.
- Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and milk mixture, bringing everything to a gentle simmer to combine the flavors.
- Cook the pasta: Add the fettuccine or spaghetti directly into the simmering liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, approximately 10-12 minutes, until the pasta reaches al dente texture.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Lower the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly, creating a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Season the dish: Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting to your preferred flavor balance.
- Let the sauce thicken: Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and further coat the pasta.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta for a vibrant color and fresh flavor before serving immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Use whole milk for a richer sauce or low-fat milk for a lighter dish.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted based on your spice preference.
- Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent clumping and ensure even cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
