Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving comforting pasta but want something quick and cozy that doesn’t leave you with a pile of dishes, Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) is about to become your weeknight hero. All the flavor of rich, garlicky cream sauce and melty Parmesan, but with simple steps and only one pan to clean. Trust me, you’ll swoon with every silky, cheesy bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) is that every ingredient truly counts—no waste, no fillers. Each one brings something lovable to the table, from the creamy melt of cheese to the comforting aroma of garlic.

• Parmesan cheese (½ cup, finely grated): Freshly grated Parm melts like a dream and gives the sauce its signature tang and velvety texture—go for a block, not the powdery stuff in a tub!
• Butter (3 tablespoons, divided): The backbone of silky sauces; a little gets added at the start and a tad more at the end for extra richness and gloss.
• Fresh garlic (4 cloves, minced): The main flavor star—use fresh cloves for the best punch and sweetness (jarred just doesn’t compare here).
• Chicken broth (2 cups): Adds savory depth, infusing the pasta with flavor as it cooks.
• Milk (1 cup): Helps create a creamy, luscious sauce without the need for heavy cream—whole or 2% is perfect.
• Angel hair pasta (8 oz.): This delicate pasta cooks in a flash and soaks up every bit of garlic-parmesan goodness.
• Fresh parsley (to garnish): Brightens everything up and makes your bowl look restaurant-worthy.
• Optional seasonings (¼ tsp each—onion powder, oregano, thyme, parsley, pepper): A pinch of each brings subtle aromatic notes to the final dish.

Variations

The best part about Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) is how endlessly riffable it is! Play with seasonings, swap your pasta, or add protein—your dinner dreams are only a mix-and-match away.

• Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon bits near the end for a satisfying meal in a bowl.
• Make It Meatless: Swap chicken broth for veggie broth and stir in roasted veggies like broccoli, peppers, or spinach for vibrant color and flavor.
• Try a Different Pasta: Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne work wonderfully—just keep an eye on cook time and add more broth if needed.
• Spicy Kick: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne adds gentle warmth to the creamy sauce.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!)

Step 1: Prep the Cheese and Aromatics

Start by grating your Parmesan cheese (it’ll melt better if it’s at room temperature) and mincing up four fresh garlic cloves. Having them ready to go guarantees you don’t miss a beat once things hit the pan.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a large skillet. When the butter’s just foamy, stir in the minced garlic. Let it gently sizzle for about 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant—don’t let it brown, or it’ll turn bitter.

Step 3: Build the Base

Add in your chicken broth (and any optional seasonings you love), then slowly pour in the milk while stirring. Increase the heat and bring everything to a gentle boil—now your “one pot” magic begins!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Slide in the angel hair pasta. Break it in half if needed so it fits, or use tongs to carefully nestle and twist the strands into the liquid as they soften. Let them simmer for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce and Serve

Turn the heat down to low. Toss in your final tablespoon of butter and swirl it around until glossy. Now, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese gradually, gently stirring until it’s lush and creamy (don’t worry if the sauce seems thin—it will thicken as it sits). Shower with fresh parsley and serve right away!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!)

Garnishes

A flurry of fresh chopped parsley creates an eye-catching pop of green and bounce of freshness. For extra decadence, you can add a dusting of extra Parmesan or a few grinds of black pepper right before serving.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) is wonderful with a simple side salad, roasted asparagus, or a pile of crispy garlic bread. Anything that helps scoop up that luscious sauce is fair game—think herby focaccia, grilled chicken, or even a glass of chilled white wine!

Creative Ways to Present

Twirling the pasta into neat nests on individual plates adds a touch of restaurant flair. Top with a Parmesan crisp or serve in mini skillets for fun, family-style dining—this dish is as easy to dress up as it is to keep cozy and casual.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftover Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will get even better as the sauce melds and soaks into the noodles!

Freezing

It’s best enjoyed fresh, as creamy sauces can change texture when frozen, but if you need to, freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.

Reheating

To revive leftover pasta without drying it out, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a tablespoon or two of milk or broth, stirring frequently until it returns to creamy perfection.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!), I can’t wait for you to discover just how easy and crave-worthy this dish is. Make it once and it’ll become your cozy, creamy, one-pan staple for years to come—happy twirling!

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