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: 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that comes together in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting dinner.

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:54:38.626Z

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The garlic adds a rich aroma, while the creaminess makes it incredibly satisfying. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of parmesan for an extra touch!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that envelops each bite
Garlic flavor that elevates the dish
Minimal cleanup with just one pot

      

A Quick and Easy Dinner Solution

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be a challenge. This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is designed to be your go-to solution for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a satisfying dish ready in about 30 minutes. The best part? You only need one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion. It combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced cooks. You can easily scale the recipe up or down depending on your needs, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Flavorful Ingredients That Shine

At the heart of this dish is the combination of fresh garlic and creamy ingredients that create a luxurious sauce. Garlic, known for its robust flavor and health benefits, is sautéed to perfection, infusing the pasta with its aromatic goodness. Pairing it with heavy cream and parmesan cheese results in a rich, velvety texture that clings to every strand of pasta, making each bite irresistible.

The optional red pepper flakes add a hint of heat that elevates the dish even further, creating a delightful balance of flavors. This recipe allows you to customize the heat level according to your preference, making it adaptable for everyone at the table. With each mouthful, the creamy garlic sauce envelops the pasta, turning a simple dish into a gourmet experience.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

One of the advantages of this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily make a larger batch and store leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. The flavors only get better as they meld together, making it a fantastic option for busy weekdays. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce if needed.

Additionally, this dish can be made ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s perfect for those who want to save time during the week without sacrificing taste or quality. Enjoying a homemade meal has never been more convenient!

Ingredients

Pasta and Seasonings

12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Creamy Sauce Ingredients

2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Sauté Garlic

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Cook Pasta

Add the fettuccine (or spaghetti), vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente.

Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!

Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste!

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To ensure your pasta turns out perfectly, always cook it al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite but cooked through. Following the package instructions for cooking time is essential, but keep an eye on it while it simmers. Stirring occasionally helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.

Another tip is to reserve a cup of the pasta cooking liquid before draining. This starchy water can be added to the sauce if it becomes too thick, helping to achieve the desired consistency while enhancing the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

While the One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is delicious on its own, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. Fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette complement the richness of the pasta beautifully.

For a protein boost, grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables can be added to the dish. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds different textures and flavors, making the meal even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used for a healthier option, but cooking times may vary.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread.