This One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a dream come true for busy cooks! It’s creamy, cheesy, and filled with tasty garlic flavor, all made in just one pot.
You won’t believe how easy this dish is! Just toss everything into the pan, let it cook, and in no time, you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti for this dish, but linguine works great too! If you’re gluten-free, consider using a gluten-free pasta. Just check the cooking time as it may differ from traditional pasta.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use salted butter. Just reduce any additional salt later in the recipe.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that vibrant flavor. If you’re short on fresh cloves, garlic powder can work in a pinch—use about 1/4 teaspoon instead of the fresh garlic.
Broth: Chicken broth adds great flavor, but vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian option. If you’re watching sodium intake, consider low-sodium broth.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy. You could also use a non-dairy milk with a bit of cornstarch for thickening.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully, but pre-grated works too. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly in One Pan?
The secret to cooking pasta in one pan is managing the liquid and timing. Here’s how to do it right!
- Start with enough broth and cream to mostly cover the pasta—this helps cook it evenly.
- Bring the mix to a boil, then lower to a simmer to prevent overcooking.
- Stir often! This keeps the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Check for doneness a couple of minutes early—the pasta can continue to cook in the residual heat.
- Once the pasta is tender, remove it from heat before adding cheese to avoid a grainy sauce.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly cooked pasta every time!
One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (960ml) chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy pasta dish takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start Cooking the Base:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted. The butter adds richness, while the olive oil helps keep it from burning.
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Keep an eye on it, as garlic can burn quickly, which would make it taste bitter!
3. Add the Pasta:
Carefully add the dry spaghetti or linguine to the skillet, spreading it out evenly so it cooks properly.
4. Pour in the Broth and Cream:
Pour the chicken or vegetable broth and the heavy cream into the pan. The liquid should mostly cover your pasta. If needed, feel free to add a bit more broth or water to ensure it cooks evenly.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered, stirring often, for about 10-12 minutes. You want the pasta to be tender and for most of the liquid to be absorbed. Stirring helps keep it from sticking together.
6. Add the Cheese:
Once the pasta is perfectly al dente, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts, creating a creamy sauce. If you like a little kick, now’s the time to mix in the red pepper flakes!
7. Season to Taste:
Taste your delicious creation and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Don’t be shy; seasoning helps bring out all those wonderful flavors!
8. Garnish it Up:
Finish off your dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and adding a bit more Parmesan cheese on top if you like.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your easy, creamy garlic Parmesan pasta hot. Gather around the table and enjoy this delightful dish with family or friends—you’ll love it!
This recipe makes a comforting and creamy pasta featuring garlic and Parmesan, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup. The fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes add a bright and slightly spicy touch to the dish.
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Just be sure to check the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta may cook faster or slower than regular pasta. Adjust accordingly for perfect tenderness!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may not be as creamy. For a non-dairy option, try coconut milk or a rich non-dairy cream alternative.
How do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and gently warm it in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli while the pasta cooks for extra flavor and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is perfectly tender.
