One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

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

Noemi Turner

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-23T04:51:33.124Z

This creamy garlic pasta is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The garlic infuses the pasta with a rich flavor, while the cream creates a luscious sauce that clings to every strand.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy sauce that’s full of garlic flavor
  • One-pot preparation for easy cooking and clean-up
  • Quick to make, perfect for weeknight dinners

A Creamy Delight

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta brings together the comforting texture of al dente spaghetti and a luscious sauce that envelopes each strand. The garlic infuses the dish with a robust flavor, making it irresistible for garlic lovers. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures that you can whip up this meal without any stress, making it a perfect choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike.

The rich combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a sense of warmth and comfort that is ideal for family dinners. It’s a meal that feels indulgent, yet it comes together in just one pot, keeping your kitchen clean and your time spent cooking to a minimum.

Meal Prep Made Easy

When life gets busy, meal prep can often feel overwhelming. This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a fantastic solution that allows you to prepare a hearty meal in no time. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking techniques, you can have dinner on the table in about 30 minutes. It’s a great way to incorporate a delicious, homemade dish into your weekly meal plan without the fuss.

Moreover, this recipe is versatile. You can easily add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor. Not only does this enhance the dish, but it also makes it an excellent way to use up any leftovers in your fridge. Embrace the ease of one-pot cooking and enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Perfect Pairings

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread, making it a well-rounded meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread provides that extra crunch and flavor that complements the dish perfectly. Consider a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance your dining experience.

For those looking to spice things up, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to the creamy sauce. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing twist. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Add Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is al dente, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined.

Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your creamy pasta dish with a side salad or garlic bread!

Storage Tips

Leftover One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency and prevent it from drying out. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious dish again and again.

If you think you might not finish the entire batch, consider freezing portions in suitable containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This way, you can always have a comforting meal ready at your fingertips.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can easily transform this dish by adding proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed tofu for a vegetarian option. Each addition will change the dynamics of the dish while still keeping it quick and easy to prepare. Try marinating the protein beforehand for extra flavor.

For a different flavor profile, consider incorporating herbs like basil or oregano, or even a dash of nutmeg for a warm, earthy note. Mixing in seasonal vegetables can also elevate the dish; think roasted zucchini in summer or sautéed kale in winter. The possibilities are endless!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

→ Can I add protein to this recipe?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be added for extra protein.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

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

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Noemi Turner

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 12 oz spaghetti
  2. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  3. 2 cups vegetable broth
  4. 1 cup heavy cream
  5. 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. Fresh parsley for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Once the pasta is al dente, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined.

Step 03

Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Total Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 12g