One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and easy dish that combines rich flavors and creamy texture, all made in just one pot!

Sabrina Holt

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:45:36.829Z

This creamy garlic pasta is a comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients to create an indulgent meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy flavor that satisfies any craving
  • Easy to make and clean up with just one pot
  • Perfectly cooked pasta with a luscious garlic sauce

A Comforting Meal in Minutes

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the ideal dish for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet quick to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe allows you to whip up a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich, creamy sauce envelops the pasta, making every bite a delight. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything is cooked in one pot!

Imagine coming home after a long day, and within minutes, you are savoring a plate of delicious pasta. This recipe not only cuts down on cooking time but also reduces the mess, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and relaxing with loved ones. The convenience of a one-pot dish makes it a go-to choice for families and busy individuals alike.

Flavor-Packed Simplicity

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the garlic, which infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen. Sautéing the garlic in olive oil releases its natural oils, creating a base that enhances the entire dish. Combined with creamy heavy cream and the savory notes of Parmesan cheese, you have a sauce that is both indulgent and comforting.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. It’s easy to customize too; consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a nutritious boost. You can also incorporate protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp, making it a versatile dish that caters to various dietary preferences.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is not just for casual dinners; it’s also suitable for entertaining. Impress your guests with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet, yet requires minimal effort. The creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta make it a showstopper, and the vibrant green parsley garnish adds a touch of elegance to your presentation.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta recipe will surely please everyone at the table. It’s a comforting classic that brings people together, making it ideal for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation.

Instructions

Sauté Garlic

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

Add Pasta and Broth

Add the fettuccine and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.

Stir in Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until creamy and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious one-pot creamy garlic pasta!

Make sure to save any leftovers for a quick meal later!

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the creamiest sauce, be sure to use heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's texture. Grating your cheese right before adding it to the pot will ensure a smooth and creamy finish.

Don't forget to taste your pasta as it cooks! The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of pasta you use. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavor of your dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so you might want to add a splash of vegetable broth or cream when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through. This dish also freezes well; however, for the best texture, consider freezing the sauce separately from the pasta and combining them when you're ready to enjoy it again.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based cheese alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be added for extra protein.

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and easy dish that combines rich flavors and creamy texture, all made in just one pot!

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Sabrina Holt

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pasta

  1. 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
  2. 4 cups vegetable broth
  3. 1 cup heavy cream
  4. 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  5. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 2 tbsp olive oil
  7. Salt and black pepper to taste
  8. Fresh parsley for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Add the fettuccine and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.

Step 03

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until creamy and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 04

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious one-pot creamy garlic pasta!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 12g