One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Aubrey Whitman

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-21T07:20:54.345Z

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Cooking everything in one pot not only saves time on cleanup but also allows the pasta to absorb all the wonderful garlic and creaminess!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich garlic flavor that is both comforting and satisfying
  • Creamy texture that clings to every noodle
  • Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights
  • Minimal cleanup with just one pot to wash

The Perfect Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy goodness of pasta. This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta not only satisfies your cravings but does so with minimal effort. The combination of garlic and cream creates a rich flavor profile that warms the soul, making it a go-to meal for any time of year. Whether you're coming home from a long day or entertaining friends, this pasta dish is sure to impress.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and one pot, you can create a gourmet experience right in your kitchen. The fettuccine absorbs the flavors of the garlic and broth, making each bite delightful. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying a meal with loved ones.

Customization Options

One of the standout features of this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is its versatility. While the recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Consider adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for an extra nutritional boost. You can also incorporate proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or even bacon for a heartier meal.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of pasta as well. While fettuccine is a classic choice, you might find that penne or even whole wheat pasta fits your preferences better. This adaptability makes it a fantastic recipe to have in your culinary repertoire, allowing you to make it uniquely yours every time.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To ensure your One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta turns out perfectly every time, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to measure your liquid accurately; too much broth can lead to a soupy consistency, while too little may leave the pasta undercooked. Stirring occasionally while the pasta cooks helps prevent it from sticking together, ensuring a smooth, creamy sauce.

Additionally, don’t rush the sautéing of the garlic—this step is crucial for developing the dish's signature flavor. Cook it just until fragrant, as overcooking can lead to bitterness. Finally, taste the dish before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed, and remember that a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top can elevate the dish even further.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this creamy pasta dish:

Ingredients

  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta:

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.

Cook Pasta

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

Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve

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

Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta from drying out, store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore creaminess.

For best results, avoid microwaving the pasta, as it can lead to uneven heating and a less desirable texture. Instead, gentle reheating on the stove will maintain the dish's velvety consistency and rich flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread or a crusty baguette makes for a perfect accompaniment. You might also consider serving it with roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal.

For a special touch, finish off your meal with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity of the wine complements the creamy sauce beautifully, enhancing your dining experience and making it feel even more indulgent.

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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.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian.

→ Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Aubrey Whitman

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 8 oz fettuccine pasta
  2. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  3. 2 cups vegetable broth
  4. 1 cup heavy cream
  5. 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  6. 2 tbsp olive oil
  7. Salt and pepper, to taste
  8. Fresh parsley, chopped 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 pasta and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 03

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 04

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

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 29g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 12g