The Simplest One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe Ever

Crafting a delightful one pot garlic parmesan pasta brings comfort right to your kitchen table.

Creamy textures and rich flavors blend seamlessly in this simple meal.

Minimal dishes mean maximum enjoyment for busy cooks seeking delicious solutions.

Parmesan cheese melts into silky sauce, creating a luxurious backdrop for tender noodles.

Garlic adds bold depth that transforms ordinary ingredients into something spectacular.

Fresh herbs can elevate this classic dish with unexpected brightness.

Let’s uncover how such a straightforward recipe can become your new weeknight favorite.

Storage Tips for One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cover with plastic wrap or lid to prevent drying out.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of water or extra broth to restore moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh texture. Stir gently and continuously to prevent sticking and maintain creamy consistency.
• Cool pasta completely, then transfer to freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs Regarding One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with fettuccine, linguine, or penne. Just adjust cooking time based on the pasta shape.

• Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to create a vegetarian-friendly version of the recipe.

• How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot?

Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking and ensure you’re using medium heat to prevent sticking and burning.

• Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon can be added to make the pasta more substantial and protein-packed.

What Makes One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta a Quick Favorite

• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: Eliminate multiple pots and pans with this one-pot wonder that transforms dinner into a stress-free experience, perfect for busy families and home cooks looking to minimize cleanup.
• Flavor-Packed Comfort: Rich Parmesan cheese, creamy sauce, and aromatic garlic create a luxurious pasta dish that delivers restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen without complicated techniques.
• Quick Meal Magic: Prepare a delicious dinner in under 20 minutes, making this recipe ideal for those craving a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen or dealing with complex cooking methods.
• Customizable Crowd-Pleaser: Easily adapt the recipe by adding protein like grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed shrimp to suit different dietary preferences and make the dish more substantial for hungry families.

List of Ingredients for One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Spaghetti: A classic pasta that serves as the hearty base of this creamy one-pot dish.
• Chicken Broth: Provides rich flavor and helps cook the pasta while creating a delicious sauce.
• Garlic: Adds a bold, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the pasta.

• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a sharp, salty flavor and helps create a luxurious, creamy texture.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the pasta sauce.
• Butter: Contributes to the silky and indulgent consistency of the dish.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the flavors of the pasta.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh herb that adds color and a light, herbal note to the finished dish.

Cooking Directions for One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta Base

Toss spaghetti, chicken broth, and minced garlic into a spacious pot. Crank up the heat to high and let everything bubble and dance together until the liquid starts rolling with enthusiasm.

Step 2: Simmer and Absorb

Lower the heat to medium and gently stir the pasta occasionally. Let the noodles soak up the flavorful broth, becoming tender and delicious. Cook until the pasta reaches perfect al dente texture and most of the liquid disappears, which typically takes around 8-10 minutes.

Step 3: Create Creamy Magic

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Heavy cream
• Butter

Stir everything until the cheese melts completely and blends into a luxurious, silky sauce. Sprinkle salt and pepper to elevate the flavors and create a mouthwatering balance.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the creamy pasta to serving plates. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and a burst of fresh herbaceous flavor. Serve piping hot and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness.

Pro Tips for One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this creamy pasta dish.
• Use gluten-free spaghetti to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Reserve some pasta water before draining to help create a smoother, silkier sauce if needed.
• Enhance the flavor by adding crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms as optional mix-ins.
• Let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and coat the noodles perfectly.

Variations to Try with One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Spicy Kick Pasta: Add red pepper flakes and diced jalapeños for a fiery version that brings heat to the classic recipe.
• Mediterranean Style: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired transformation.
• Vegetarian Mushroom Blend: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and mix in sautéed wild mushrooms for an earthy alternative.
• Seafood Celebration: Stir in cooked shrimp or crab meat during the final minutes of cooking for a luxurious ocean-inspired dish.

Pairing Options for One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Crisp White Wine Companion: Pair this creamy pasta with a chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness and complement the garlic's sharp flavor.
• Zesty Side Salad Boost: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the pasta's creamy texture and add a fresh, peppery contrast.
• Roasted Vegetable Partner: Serve alongside simple roasted asparagus or broccoli to introduce a subtle green vegetable element that enhances the dish's overall flavor profile.
• Crispy Garlic Bread Sidekick: Add toasted garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce and provide a crunchy texture that complements the smooth pasta.

One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 13-15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Garlic parmesan pasta brings comfort and convenience to your dinner table in a single skillet. Creamy, cheesy goodness meets easy preparation, creating a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Dairy:

• 1 pound (454 grams) spaghetti
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Liquid and Seasonings:

• 4 1/2 cups (1080 milliliters) chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Aromatics and Garnish:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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Instructions

1. Place spaghetti, chicken broth, and minced garlic in a large pot, then ignite burner to high heat and bring liquid to a rolling boil.
2. Lower temperature to medium and gently stir pasta intermittently, allowing ingredients to simmer and meld together until noodles reach perfect al dente texture and most liquid evaporates, approximately 8-10 minutes.
3. Remove pot from heat and introduce Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and butter, stirring vigorously until ingredients transform into a luxurious, creamy sauce that coats each strand of pasta evenly.
4. Season the mixture with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning to personal preference.
5. Transfer pasta to serving dishes, creating an elegant swirl with tongs to showcase the glossy, rich sauce.
6. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant burst of color and subtle herbaceous flavor, then serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Always use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
• Break spaghetti noodles in half before cooking to ensure even cooking and easier stirring in the pot.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk to reduce calories and fat content.
• Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms to transform this simple pasta into a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 423 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 410 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg