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Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

creamy one-pot garlic parmesan pasta - featured image

A quick and easy one-pot pasta recipe that delivers creamy, cheesy comfort in under 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or late-night cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or linguine
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until foamy but not browning.
  2. Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for 30-45 seconds until fragrant and just barely golden.
  3. Pour in the broth and heavy cream, stir to combine, and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Add the fettuccine, pressing it down to submerge as much as possible. Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a steady simmer.
  5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes, until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened.
  6. Remove from heat, add the Parmesan cheese, and stir vigorously until fully melted and sauce is smooth.
  7. Stir in salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan and stir the pasta every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking and encourage starch release. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or warm broth. If too thin, let sit off heat for 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, garlic parmesan pasta, creamy pasta, easy dinner, weeknight dinner, comfort food