The Ultimate One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe You’ll Love

If you’re looking for a quick, comforting, and flavorful weeknight dinner, this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is your new best friend. It’s rich, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make — with minimal cleanup! Perfect for busy evenings or when you want something decadent but fuss-free, this pasta dish is a total crowd-pleaser.

Imagine perfectly cooked pasta bathed in a luscious sauce made with garlic, cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese — all done in one pot. You’ll love how the sauce thickens as it simmers, coating each noodle with creamy goodness. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite add-ins or veggies.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or linguine pasta
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth (choose low sodium to control saltiness)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional add-ins: cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes

Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients: Mince the garlic, grate the Parmesan cheese, and have your broth measured and ready.
2. Sauté the garlic: In a large deep skillet or wide pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add pasta and broth: Pour in the uncooked pasta and pour the chicken broth over it. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
4. Cook the pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for about 8-10 minutes or until pasta is al dente and most of the broth is absorbed.
5. Add the cream: Stir in the heavy cream and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to begin to thicken.
6. Incorporate Parmesan: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously. This will thicken the sauce further and add rich cheesy flavor.
7. Season and finish: Taste your sauce and season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a kick. Stir in any additional cooked add-ins like chicken or veggies now, if using.
8. Serve warm: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan on top. Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Choose the right pasta: Long, flat noodles like fettuccine or linguine hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Avoid tiny shapes for best results.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Freshly grate your cheese for that silky sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the pasta continues cooking in the sauce, aim for just al dente to avoid mushy texture.
• Stir often: This will help prevent the pasta from sticking and ensure the sauce coats every strand evenly.
• Customize your add-ins: Leftover grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions to elevate the meal.
• Adjust consistency: If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a splash of broth or cream to loosen it.
• Use quality broth: A flavorful broth makes a huge difference since it forms the base of the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this pasta vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any meat add-ins. For added protein, toss in some sautéed mushrooms or cooked chickpeas.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap the butter for olive oil or a dairy-free spread, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute.

Can I use different types of pasta?

You can use most pasta shapes, but keep in mind that flat noodles like fettuccine or linguine absorb the sauce best and cook evenly in this one-pot method. Avoid very small shapes like orzo or tiny shells, which can become mushy.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave and add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce’s creaminess.

Can I freeze this pasta?

While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly after thawing. If you plan to freeze, cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container, and reheat slowly on the stove with added broth or cream.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil, use a plant-based cream alternative, and sub nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan-style cheese for the Parmesan. Use vegetable broth to keep it vegan-friendly.

Can I add vegetables directly to the pot?

Yes! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or thinly sliced zucchini work well. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking so they stay fresh and vibrant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is perfect for anyone who craves rich, flavorful meals without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The simplicity of cooking everything in one pot not only saves time but also infuses the pasta with maximum flavor as it absorbs the garlicky, cheesy broth.

Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable — whether you want to add a protein boost or sneak in some greens, this pasta is a fantastic canvas. Impress your family, wow your friends, or treat yourself to a creamy, dreamy dinner any night of the week!

Final Thoughts

So whether you’re a busy parent, a college student craving comfort food, or just someone who enjoys a hearty, cheesy pasta, this recipe has you covered. Don’t forget to pin it for later because you’ll want to come back to this easy deliciousness again and again. Happy cooking and bon appétit!