One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 ounces of pasta (your choice); 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 cups of vegetable broth; 1 cup of heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish; Grated cheese (Parmesan or your choice) for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe, where tender noodles are enveloped in a rich and velvety garlic sauce. This easy, no-fuss dish combines minimal cleanup with maximum flavor, making it the perfect meal for busy families. Enjoy the creamy goodness paired with fresh herbs and grated cheese for a comforting culinary experience.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-25T04:20:17.904Z

Why One Pot Meals are a Game Changer

One pot meals, like this creamy garlic pasta, are an incredible solution for busy nights when time is short and cleanup needs to be minimal. With everything cooked in a single pot, you not only save time on preparation but also avoid the hassle of washing multiple dishes. This dish allows you to focus on enjoying quality time with family or friends rather than getting bogged down in kitchen chores.

Additionally, one pot cooking maximizes flavor by allowing ingredients to meld together beautifully. The pasta absorbs the rich garlic-infused broth while simmering, creating a deep and satisfying taste in each bite. This recipe balances simplicity and gourmet flair, making it suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering.

Ingredient Flexibility

One of the best aspects of this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe is its versatility. You can customize the dish based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you opt for whole wheat pasta, gluten-free noodles, or substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, this recipe remains accommodating without sacrificing flavor.

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to enhance both the nutrition and the visual appeal of the dish. Not only do these additions contribute added vitamins and minerals, but they also introduce extra layers of texture and taste, ensuring that each serving is unique and delightful.

Perfect Pairings

While this creamy garlic pasta is delicious on its own, pairing it with additional sides can elevate your dining experience. A refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the pasta. You might also consider serving garlic bread on the side to complement the garlic flavors, creating a fulfilling meal that everyone will love.

For beverage pairings, a crisp white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon can provide a refreshing balance to the creamy dish. Overall, the possibilities are endless, allowing you to craft a complete meal that tantalizes your taste buds and satisfies your appetite.

Ingredients

Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

8 ounces of pasta (your choice)
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cups of vegetable broth
1 cup of heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish
Grated cheese (Parmesan or your choice) for serving

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting the recipe.

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, combine the pasta, minced garlic, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.

Add Cream

Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.

Serve

Remove from heat, and garnish with fresh herbs and grated cheese before serving.

Enjoy your creamy garlic pasta hot!

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To achieve perfectly cooked pasta, make sure to choose the right type for your dish. Thin spaghetti or fettuccine works beautifully for this recipe, as they easily absorb the sauce's flavors. Remember to check the package instructions for cooking times, and taste-test a minute or two before the suggested time to ensure your pasta reaches the ideal al dente texture.

Another tip is to maintain a gentle boil but not let it turn too aggressive, as splattering can create messes on your stovetop. Stir occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking, and keep an eye on the liquid levels to avoid burning the bottom of the pot.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of this creamy garlic pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out.

If you plan to make this dish in advance, consider undercooking the pasta slightly. This ensures it holds up well during reheating. The flavors will continue to deepen even after the initial cooking process, making the leftovers just as enjoyable, if not more so!

Nutritional Boosts

Elevating the nutritional value of your One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is easy and enjoyable. Consider adding protein sources like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to create a heartier meal. These additions will not only enhance the dish's flavor but also make it more substantial and satisfying.

Incorporating a variety of fresh herbs, such as basil, thyme, or rosemary, adds not just flavor but also a range of antioxidants and vitamins. These herbs can transform your creamy pasta into a dish bursting with freshness, allowing you to enjoy a delightful culinary experience while also nourishing your body.