One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe. This creamy, succulent dish combines tender pasta with rich garlic and a velvety sauce, all made in a single pot for easy cleanup. Perfect for busy families or a cozy meal for two, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table and is ready in just 30 minutes!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-13T12:45:13.239Z

This dish has become a crowd favorite in my household.

A Quick and Satisfying Meal

In today's fast-paced world, many of us find it challenging to cook elaborate meals. This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta provides a solution by offering a delicious and fulfilling dinner option that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. Whether you're coming home from a long day at work or simply want to whip up something comforting, this recipe ensures you don't have to compromise on flavor or quality.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With only a handful of ingredients, you can transform pantry staples into a delightful meal that feels gourmet. The creamy sauce coats each strand of pasta, delivering an irresistible blend of garlic and cheese flavors that everyone will love. Plus, cooking everything in one pot not only reduces cleanup time but also allows the pasta to absorb the savory broth, enhancing its taste.

Cooking Tips and Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences! For added protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. These ingredients not only enhance the nutritional value but also add more layers of flavor to the dish, making it even more satisfying.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Additionally, try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs. Regardless of the adjustments you make, the core of this recipe remains its creamy, aromatic garlic base, ensuring delicious results every time.

Serving Suggestions

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta can stand alone as a meal, but it's also perfect when enjoyed with a light salad or a side of garlic bread. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the creaminess of the pasta beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal. Additionally, pairing it with a crisp white wine can elevate the dining experience.

For those looking to enhance their meal presentation, consider garnishing the pasta with more fresh parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or extra grated Parmesan on top. These additions not only make the dish visually appealing but also add an extra burst of flavor to each bite.

Ingredients

Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

8 oz pasta of your choice
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, combine the pasta, minced garlic, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes.

Add the Cream

Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Nutritional Benefits

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers several nutritional benefits. Garlic has been recognized for its health properties, including potential immunity-boosting effects and heart health benefits. When combined with a balance of carbohydrates from the pasta and protein from the cheese, this dish gives you a quick energy boost, making it a great go-to meal.

By incorporating fresh ingredients, such as parsley, you can enhance the nutritional profile further. Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and adding it as a garnish not only promotes health but also brightens the flavor of the dish.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in for a treat! This creamy garlic pasta stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, simply transfer any remaining pasta into an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Just add a splash of broth or cream to help restore its creamy texture while reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. However, keep in mind that freezing may alter the texture of the cream sauce slightly upon thawing. To freeze, place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container, and it should retain its flavors for up to two months. Remember to label your container with the date for easy tracking!

Frequently Asked Questions

One common question about this recipe is whether it can be made vegan. Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Ensure your pasta is also egg-free for a complete vegan meal.

Another frequently asked question relates to cooking the pasta until it's perfectly al dente. Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks; testing it a minute or two before the recommended cooking time can prevent it from becoming too soft. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly after you drain it, especially when mixed with the hot sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute for regular pasta.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.