When comfort calls and time is short, this one pot creamy garlic pasta comes to the rescue. It’s silky, garlicky, and deeply satisfying with every bite all made in just 20 minutes and one single pan. It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget takeout even exists.
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Why You’ll Love One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
This creamy garlic pasta is the weeknight dinner dream. It’s rich but not heavy, made with pantry staples, and the cleanup is a breeze. The garlic softens into buttery sweetness while the cream and cheese swirl into a velvety sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
If you’re in the mood for sheet pan magic, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken makes an easy dinner to serve with pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
8 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 tablespoon olive oil
5 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Chopped parsley for garnish
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium. Add the garlic and cook for about a minute until it’s fragrant and just golden. You want it mellow and sweet, not browned and bitter.
Step 2: Add Pasta and Liquid
Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add the pasta and stir to coat. Make sure it’s mostly submerged in liquid. Let it simmer uncovered, stirring often to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cook Until Creamy
Simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has thickened into a creamy sauce. Stir in the Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is glossy and coated.
Or serve this pasta next to a fresh green salad and warm Garlic Bread Rolls total comfort food heaven.
Tips and Variations
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor
Add a handful of spinach during the last few minutes for color and greens
Throw in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon for protein
Swap the broth for chicken stock for deeper richness
Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat
For another cozy skillet idea, try this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet ultra comforting and just as quick.
Storing One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce
This pasta doesn’t freeze well due to the cream but it rarely lasts that long
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. You can add more cheese to thicken it.
What type of pasta works best?
Long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine works great, but you can also use short shapes like penne or rotini.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Try using full-fat coconut milk and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative for a creamy plant-based version.
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One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant and just golden. Avoid browning.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add the pasta and stir to coat. Make sure the noodles are mostly submerged in liquid.
- Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Toss until pasta is evenly coated and glossy.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
• Add spinach or kale during the last few minutes for color and nutrients.
• For protein, mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
• Swap the vegetable broth for chicken stock for deeper flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.