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One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

A quick and easy creamy pasta dish cooked in one pot, featuring garlic, Parmesan, and a velvety sauce that hugs every noodle.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz dry pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or shells)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced Increase if you love garlic
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup milk or half-and-half
  • 1 cup heavy cream Optional for extra richness
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for best melting
  • to taste salt Season throughout the cooking process
  • to taste black pepper Season throughout the cooking process
  • pinch red pepper flakes Optional for a touch of heat
  • 1 tbsp cream cheese Optional for plush texture
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest For brightness
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley or chives For garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Warm olive oil and butter in a wide pot over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and milk, then season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Add dry pasta to the pot and stir to prevent sticking.
  5. Simmer gently, stirring frequently until the liquid reduces and thickens.
  6. When pasta is almost al dente, lower the heat and stir in Parmesan, cream, and butter.
  7. Adjust consistency by adding warm water or broth if too thick; simmer until desired thickness.
  8. Finish with parsley or chives and lemon zest, then serve immediately.

Notes

This dish reheats beautifully. For leftovers, add a splash of liquid to loosen the sauce before reheating. Adding cooked protein like chicken or shrimp and vegetables like peas or spinach can enhance the meal.