Ever craved a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly easy to make? This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is your answer! Silky smooth, infused with garlic, and ready in minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing unexpected guests. Inspired by the simplicity of Italian home cooking, let’s dive into the magic of this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
This one-pot pasta is about to become your new go-to. Here’s why:
- Ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-pot wonder – less cleanup than traditional pasta dishes.
- Incredibly creamy and flavorful – a true comfort food experience.
- Budget-friendly – uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- Simple enough for even beginner cooks.
- Aroma fills the kitchen with garlicky goodness.
- Rekindles cozy family meal memories.
It’s truly an irresistible and effortless meal!
Ingredients Needed for Creamy Garlic Pasta
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this culinary delight. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the final symphony of flavors. Let’s explore them:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (950ml/32 fl oz) – choose low-sodium for better control
- 8 ounces pasta (225g) (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- ½ cup heavy cream (120ml/4 fl oz)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (25g)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (3g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For a richer taste, consider using homemade vegetable broth. You can find fresh parsley at most local farmers’ markets. Lightly toast the red pepper flakes to amplify their warmth.
Essential Equipment List
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Essential: A large pot or Dutch oven is key for even cooking.
- Essential: Measuring spoons and cups ensure accurate ingredient ratios.
- Essential: A stirring spoon prevents pasta from sticking.
- Essential: A cheese grater is necessary for fresh Parmesan.
- Optional: A chopping board and knife for prepping garlic and parsley.
A heavy-bottomed pot retains heat beautifully, while a good knife makes mincing garlic a breeze.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
Scale up this creamy garlic pasta for a crowd or halve it for solo dining. This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Follow these steps for a perfect pasta experience. Each step builds on the last, creating layers of flavor and creamy texture.
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 2: Add Broth and Pasta
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add the pasta to the pot and stir to ensure it is submerged in the liquid.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the pasta starts to stick, add a splash more broth.
Step 4: Finish with Cream and Cheese
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The heat from the pasta will melt the cheese into a silky sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting and flavorful pasta dish! Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan for an extra touch.
Want it even more flavourful? CHECK OUT: 30-Minutes Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta – A zesty twist for spice lovers.
Tips for Success with Your Garlic Pasta
Here are some tips to ensure your pasta turns out perfectly every time:
- Burnt garlic? Start with a lower heat and stir frequently.
- Pasta sticking? Stir more often, or add a little more broth.
- Sauce too thick? Thin it with a splash of vegetable broth.
- Grate the Parmesan fresh for the best flavor.
Deglaze the pot with a splash of broth after sautéing the garlic for extra depth of flavor.
Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Garlic Pasta
Customize this recipe to your liking with these simple variations:
- Go dairy-free with cashew cream or coconut cream.
- Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan for a vegan option.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings with One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Complete your meal with these delicious pairings:
- Pair with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- Enjoy with a refreshing mint lemonade.
This dish is a fall feast stunner! Elevate the plating by garnishing with fresh herbs.
Health Benefits
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta isn’t just delicious; it also offers several health benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties. The vegetable broth provides hydration and essential minerals. Parmesan cheese adds calcium and protein. This dish is comforting and nutritious!
Storage & Reheating
Here’s how to store and reheat your leftover pasta:
- Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.
Cool the pasta fully before sealing to prevent spoilage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I avoid soggy pasta?
Be sure to drain any excess liquid after cooking the pasta. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double this recipe. Just use a larger pot and watch the cooking time closely.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would be great additions.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Milk will work, but the sauce will be thinner and less creamy. For a richer sauce, stick with heavy cream.
What if I don’t have vegetable broth?
You can use chicken broth or a bouillon cube dissolved in water as a substitute.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with cashew cream or coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 520
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 60g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 18g
Exact stats need a nutrition calculator. Carbs: 60g from wholesome grains.
More Delicious Dishes to Explore After Your Pasta
Craving more easy and delicious recipes? Try these gems!
- Cozy Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze – Indulge in the delightful taste of warm apples and sweet vanilla in every bite.
- Easy One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta – A simple, flavorful dish perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
- The Best Ice Cream Recipe – Cool down with this rich and creamy homemade ice cream, ideal for any occasion.
Conclusion
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is fast, flavorful, and a definite crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect solution for a quick and delicious meal! Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece!
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One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 20 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Quick and easy One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta ready in minutes! A comforting and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 8 ounces pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the pasta to the pot and stir to ensure it is submerged in the liquid.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with cashew cream or coconut cream.
- Vegan: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 680
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 60
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 18
- Cholesterol: 75
Keywords: one pot pasta, creamy garlic pasta, easy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, quick dinner
