One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that combines the rich flavors of garlic and cream in a convenient one-pot meal.

Kayla Monroe

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2025-12-21T01:35:52.164Z

This creamy pasta dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The garlic flavor shines through, making it a family favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, creamy texture that comforts the soul
  • Garlic flavor that elevates every bite
  • Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup

The Simplicity of One-Pot Meals

One-pot meals are a game changer for busy weeknights. They not only save time but also minimize the mess in your kitchen. With this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta, you can enjoy a hearty, gourmet meal without having to wash multiple pans and dishes. The convenience of cooking everything in one pot means more time to relax and enjoy your meal with family or friends.

This recipe is perfect for those who are new to cooking or anyone looking for a quick and satisfying dinner option. With just a few simple ingredients and a single pot, you can create a delicious dish that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the creamy garlic sauce is an absolute crowd-pleaser, making it a great choice for gatherings or family dinners.

Flavorful Ingredients for Maximum Taste

The beauty of this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Garlic, a star ingredient in this dish, adds a robust aroma and taste that enhances the overall flavor profile. When sautéed, garlic becomes sweet and caramelized, infusing the pasta with its delightful essence.

Using heavy cream creates a rich and velvety sauce that clings to every piece of pasta, providing a comforting mouthfeel. The addition of Parmesan cheese not only contributes to the creaminess but also adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish to new heights. Each bite is an indulgent experience that satisfies your cravings for comfort food.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is its versatility. While the recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. This adaptability makes it a great go-to recipe for different occasions.

Additionally, you can experiment with various types of pasta or cheese to create your own unique version of this dish. Whole grain pasta or gluten-free options work well for those with specific dietary restrictions. With just a few tweaks, this one-pot recipe can become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

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

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Simmer and Stir

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the broth is absorbed.

Add Cream and Cheese

Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers of this creamy garlic pasta, you'll be glad to know it stores well in the refrigerator. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. However, keep in mind that the cream sauce may change in texture once frozen. To freeze, portion the pasta into individual servings in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Perfect Pairings

To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta with a fresh, crisp salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. You may also want to serve some crusty bread on the side to soak up any leftover sauce, ensuring you don’t miss a single drop of that delicious garlic cream.

For beverages, a chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio works wonderfully with the creamy flavors of the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon can be a refreshing accompaniment.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure your Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be added for extra protein. Just cook them separately and mix them in before serving.

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that combines the rich flavors of garlic and cream in a convenient one-pot meal.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Kayla Monroe

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pasta

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

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the broth is absorbed.

Step 03

Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 04

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Total Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 12g