One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta: Easy, Flavorful, and Comforting

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner—quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Made in just one pot, it requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum satisfaction. The pasta cooks directly in a rich, garlicky sauce, absorbing every bit of flavor along the way. The result is a silky, creamy dish that feels indulgent yet comes together with simple, everyday ingredients. Perfect as a stand-alone vegetarian meal or as a side dish with chicken, shrimp, or steak, this pasta is versatile and adaptable. The fragrant garlic pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, creating a comforting dish that the whole family will love. Best of all, the one-pot method saves time and effort, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta
Any short pasta such as penne, rotini, or fusilli works perfectly, soaking up the creamy sauce.

Garlic
Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with a rich, aromatic flavor that defines the dish.

Olive Oil
Used to sauté the garlic, adding a smooth base of flavor.

Butter
Provides richness and depth, making the sauce velvety and indulgent.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth
Serves as the liquid base for cooking the pasta, infusing it with savory flavor.

Heavy Cream
Creates the creamy consistency that makes the pasta so comforting.

Parmesan Cheese
Adds salty, nutty richness and thickens the sauce into a luscious coating.

Salt and Black Pepper
Essential seasonings that enhance the pasta and balance the garlic.

Parsley
Fresh parsley brightens the dish, adding color and freshness.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
For a touch of heat that complements the garlic and cream.

Directions

In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the broth and heavy cream, then bring to a gentle simmer. Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cook the pasta in the creamy broth mixture until tender, about 10–12 minutes, depending on the pasta type. As it cooks, the liquid will reduce and thicken into a silky sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Once the pasta is al dente, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Remove from heat and let the pasta sit for 2–3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken further. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy as a main dish or pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation takes 5 minutes, cooking time is about 15 minutes, and resting adds another 2–3 minutes. The total time is under 25 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may cause the sauce to separate. This pasta does not freeze well due to the cream base.

Variations and Customizations

Chicken Garlic Pasta
Add cooked, shredded chicken or sautéed chicken breast for a protein boost.

Shrimp Garlic Pasta
Toss in seared shrimp for a seafood variation with a touch of elegance.

Mushroom Cream Pasta
Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic.

Spinach and Tomato Pasta
Stir in fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes for a colorful, veggie-packed version.

Lemon Garlic Pasta
Squeeze fresh lemon juice and add zest for a citrusy brightness.

Spicy Garlic Pasta
Increase the red pepper flakes or add chili oil for a bold, spicy kick.

Cheesy Upgrade
Mix in mozzarella or cream cheese for an extra creamy, indulgent sauce.

Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free pasta for a diet-friendly version.

Herb Infusion
Add fresh basil, thyme, or oregano to enhance the flavor profile.

Lightened-Up Version
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter, yet still creamy dish.

FAQs

Do I need to cook the pasta separately?

No, the pasta cooks directly in the broth and cream mixture for maximum flavor.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner; add more Parmesan for richness.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook it over medium heat and stir constantly for just 1–2 minutes.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut milk or oat cream and vegan Parmesan.

What pasta shape works best?

Short pasta like penne or fusilli works best, but spaghetti also works.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare and reheat with added cream or broth.

Does this pasta freeze well?

No, the cream sauce tends to separate after freezing.

Conclusion

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the perfect combination of convenience and comfort. With its rich, velvety sauce and bold garlic flavor, it’s a dish that feels indulgent while being simple to prepare. Ready in less than 25 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for guests. Customizable with proteins, vegetables, or spices, this pasta is endlessly versatile and guaranteed to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!