Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight meal: one pot creamy garlic pasta! This dish has become a staple in my house because it’s not just delicious, it’s incredibly easy to whip up after a long day. I remember the first time I made it for my family—they couldn’t believe how rich and flavorful it was, all coming from just one pot! The creamy texture combined with that garlicky goodness is a total game changer. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze, which is a huge win in my book! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this pasta always impresses. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen too!
Ingredients List
- 300g pasta (any shape you like)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (feel free to add more if you love garlic!)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought, your choice!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that luscious creaminess)
- 1 cup packed grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for an amazing flavor)
- Salt to taste (don’t be shy, it brings out the flavors!)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked black pepper is divine)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (adds a nice pop of color and freshness)
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the magic of making this one pot creamy garlic pasta! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be a pasta pro in your own kitchen!
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Make sure your pot is big enough to hold all the pasta and sauce without spilling over—trust me, a larger pot makes everything cook more evenly!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Once the oil is hot, add in those 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté until it’s fragrant—this usually takes about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic can turn bitter, and we want that lovely garlicky aroma to shine through!
Step 3: Add Pasta and Broth
Now, it’s time to add in your 300g of pasta and pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth. Give it a good stir to ensure the pasta is submerged. Bring this mix to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. You’ll want to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally until the pasta is cooked to your liking, usually about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of packed grated Parmesan cheese. This is where the magic happens! Mix everything together until it’s creamy and luscious. If it seems too thick, you can always add a splash of broth to loosen it up a bit.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Finally, season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—this step really enhances the flavors! When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. And voilà, you’re ready to dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Only one pot means minimal cleanup, so you can enjoy your meal without the hassle.
- Rich and creamy flavor that satisfies every pasta lover’s cravings.
- Versatile recipe—feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins!
- Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends and family.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Kid-friendly and sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Tips for Success
Here are some of my top tips to ensure your one pot creamy garlic pasta turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two! For a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount to suit your taste.
- Pasta Choices: You can use any pasta you have on hand—spaghetti, penne, or even fusilli work beautifully. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape.
- Make it Vegan: To keep it plant-based, swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for that cheesy flavor.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Feel free to throw in some fresh or frozen veggies like spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes. Just add them when you stir in the cream and cheese for a pop of color and nutrition!
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Just add a splash of broth or water when reheating to bring back that creamy consistency.
These little tweaks can elevate your dish and make it your own, so don’t hesitate to get creative! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this one pot creamy garlic pasta! Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: About 450
- Total Fat: Approximately 25g
- Saturated Fat: Roughly 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: Around 70mg
- Sodium: Estimated at 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: About 45g
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 3g
- Protein: Roughly 12g
- Sugar: About 2g
This creamy delight is a satisfying choice that packs in flavor while providing a decent amount of protein and carbs to keep you fueled. Just remember, you can always tweak the recipe to fit your dietary needs, especially if you’re looking to lighten it up or add more nutrients with veggies!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this one pot creamy garlic pasta? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I receive, along with my answers to help you out.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Just make sure to choose a gluten-free pasta that cooks similarly to regular pasta. Keep an eye on it as it may cook faster or slower, but the creamy sauce will still work beautifully!
What can I add to make this creamy pasta more substantial?
If you want to bulk it up, consider adding some cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms. They all pair wonderfully with the creamy garlic sauce and make for a heartier meal!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time, but I recommend storing them separately and combining them just before serving. This keeps the pasta from getting too soggy and ensures it stays creamy!
Is this an easy pasta recipe for beginners?
Definitely! This one pot creamy garlic pasta is super beginner-friendly. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen!
How do I store leftovers?
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore that creamy texture!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to store your delicious one pot creamy garlic pasta and keep it tasting amazing for later! If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), the key is to store them properly. Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture buildup, which can make the pasta soggy. It should stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, reheating is super simple! Just grab a skillet and add the pasta over medium heat. It’s a good idea to add a splash of vegetable broth or a little heavy cream to help bring back that creamy texture. Stir it gently until it’s heated through, and voilà! You’ll have a delicious meal that tastes almost as good as the first time around. Just remember to keep an eye on it while reheating to avoid drying it out.
If you want to freeze any portions, go ahead! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the same reheating steps. You’ll love how easy it is to have this creamy pasta on hand whenever you need a quick meal!
Learn more about creamy garlic pasta and explore more delicious recipes!
Print
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta: 5 Steps to Comfort Food Bliss
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This dish features creamy garlic pasta made in one pot for easy preparation.
Ingredients
- 300g pasta
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add pasta and vegetable broth to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use any pasta of your choice.
- Adjust the amount of garlic based on preference.
- For a vegan version, replace heavy cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: one pot creamy garlic pasta, creamy pasta, garlic pasta, easy pasta recipe
