One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Name: One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2025-12-21T07:40:53.488Z

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta combines the rich flavors of garlic and cream in a simple, all-in-one dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without the hassle of multiple pots and pans!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta
Garlic flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level
Quick preparation means more time to enjoy your meal

      

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

On hectic weeknights, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can feel overwhelming. This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta simplifies your dinner routine by combining all the ingredients in one pot. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a comforting meal ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, the easy cleanup means you can spend more time with your loved ones instead of scrubbing pots and pans.

Whether you're coming home from work or school, this pasta dish is a fantastic solution when time is of the essence. It’s a perfect balance of convenience and flavor, making it an ideal choice for families on the go. You won't have to sacrifice taste for speed with this quick recipe!

A Flavorful Experience

Garlic is the star of this dish, elevating the flavors and adding a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen. The combination of freshly minced garlic and a rich creamy sauce creates a luxurious experience that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Each bite of fettuccine is perfectly coated in the creamy garlic sauce, making it hard to resist going back for seconds.

The addition of Parmesan cheese not only enhances the creaminess but also adds a subtle nuttiness that harmonizes beautifully with the garlic. This pasta dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction, making it a go-to recipe for any garlic lover.

Customizable for Everyone

One of the best aspects of this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is its versatility. While the base recipe is rich and satisfying, it can easily be customized to suit various dietary preferences. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor. If you're looking to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be tossed in for a heartier meal.

For those following a vegan diet, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. This flexibility ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy a delicious bowl of pasta, making it a truly inclusive recipe.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Gather all the ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, combine the fettuccine, vegetable broth, and minced garlic. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and let it simmer, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked and the liquid has reduced.

Add Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your meal with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad!

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To achieve the perfect texture, be sure to cook your pasta al dente. This means it should still have a slight bite to it when you taste it. Cooking it too long can result in a mushy texture, which detracts from the overall dish. Remember that the pasta will continue to cook a bit in the sauce, so removing it from the heat just before it reaches the desired doneness is key.

Stirring occasionally while the pasta simmers is essential to prevent sticking. This helps ensure that each strand of fettuccine is coated with the flavorful broth and garlic, resulting in a more satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to return some moisture to the pasta, as it may dry out in the fridge. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even warming.

This dish can also be frozen, but keep in mind that the cream may change texture slightly upon thawing. For best results, portion out servings before freezing and reheat as needed for a quick meal anytime.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta experience, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad. A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta perfectly. You can also add garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for an extra crunch.

For a finishing touch, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish, enhancing the garlic flavor and adding a refreshing zest that balances the creaminess beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used for a healthier option, but cooking time may vary.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this pasta?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas work great in this dish.