One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

If you’re searching for a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t require a ton of dishes and is bursting with flavor, look no further than this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta. This dish combines the rich, aromatic essence of garlic with a smooth, creamy sauce, all cooked in just one pot! Perfect for busy weeknights or any time you need a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients

  • Pasta: 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well)
  • Garlic: 4-6 cloves, minced (adjust to personal preference)
  • Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 4 cups
  • Heavy Cream: 1 cup
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated (plus extra for serving)
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste
  • Fresh Parsley: chopped (for garnish)
  • Red Pepper Flakes: optional, for a little heat

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure to mince the garlic and chop the fresh parsley for garnish. Grate the Parmesan cheese and set it aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

In a large pot or skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add your pasta to the pot, followed by the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed.

3. Create the Creamy Sauce

Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy and well mixed.

4. Season to Taste

Taste your pasta and season with salt and pepper as needed. For those who enjoy a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

5. Serve

Once your pasta is perfectly creamy and seasoned, remove it from the heat. Serve the One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips and Variations

  • Add Protein: Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed veggies for extra protein and nutrition.
  • Use Different Cheeses: Try substituting Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or adding a dash of cream cheese for an extra rich flavor.
  • Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil, thyme, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile.

Conclusion

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s the epitome of comfort food made easy. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect dish for cozy family dinners or a quick solo bite. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the mouthwatering garlic aroma wafting through your kitchen. Happy cooking!