If you're looking for a simple garlic pasta recipe, you've come to the right place. This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is not just easy to make, but it also brings back fond memories of family dinners. I remember one evening when my son, Jake, insisted on helping me cook. He accidentally spilled a whole cup of garlic, and while we laughed, it turned out to be the best garlic pasta we ever made!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze.
- The creamy garlic sauce is rich and comforting.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Pure Comfort
This dish is pure comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly. With creamy textures and garlicky goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
What You Need
- 8 oz 8 oz fettuccine pasta – You can substitute with spaghetti or penne if preferred.
- 4 tbsp 4 tbsp unsalted butter – Olive oil can be used for a lighter option.
- 6 cloves 6 cloves garlic, minced – Adjust the amount based on your garlic preference.
- 2 cups 2 cups vegetable broth – Chicken broth works too for a non-vegetarian version.
- 1 cup 1 cup heavy cream – You can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- 1 cup 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Feel free to use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped – Basil can be a lovely alternative.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Total: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
Steps to Make It
- Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Let it bubble and sizzle, releasing a delightful aroma. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter is fully melted and slightly foamy.
- Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Stir it around for about 1 minute until it turns fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Watch for bubbles forming, which indicates it’s heating up. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
- Once boiling, add the fettuccine pasta to the pot. Stir it well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the broth. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. The sauce will become creamy and rich. Keep stirring until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and thickens the sauce. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce clings to the pasta beautifully.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, this is the time to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Finally, serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley. The vibrant green will add a lovely touch to your dish. Enjoy your meal with family or friends!
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the mix.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
- Leftover pasta can be reheated on the stove with a little extra cream or broth.
Mix It Up
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Mix in seasonal vegetables like asparagus or peas for added nutrition.
Perfect Partners
- Pair this dish with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
- Garlic bread complements the creamy flavors perfectly.
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FAQs
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat and add the pasta when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best not to freeze creamy pasta dishes, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream for a lighter option.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can use any hard cheese you have on hand, or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Conclusion
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is truly a gem for easy at home meals. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it's bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your loved ones and enjoy a comforting bowl of this delightful dish!

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta for Easy At Home Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat until fully melted and slightly foamy.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden, taking care not to burn it.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil over 2-3 minutes.
- Add the fettuccine pasta to the pot, stir to submerge in broth, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid mostly absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream until sauce is creamy and heated through.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce thickens, clinging to the pasta.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes; adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley.