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One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Keyword creamy pasta, Easy Dinner, garlic parmesan pasta, one-pot pasta, Pasta
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450kcal
A quick and comforting one-pot pasta dish that combines spaghetti, garlic, and parmesan for a creamy and rich meal in just minutes.

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 8 ounces spaghetti, linguine, or short pasta like penne
  • 2 tablespoons butter for richness
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil to keep the butter from browning too fast
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, minced fresh is key for big flavor
  • 2.5 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup milk or half and half use heavy cream for extra luxury
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan avoid pre-grated for best results
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • pinch red pepper flakes, lemon zest, chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Warm a wide pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil.
  • Stir in the garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant, not brown.
  • Pour in the broth and milk. Add a small pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Drop in the pasta. Bend long strands so they fit and stir to separate.
  • Cook at a steady simmer, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid reduces into a light sauce, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. If the liquid gets too low before the pasta is done, add a splash of hot water.
  • Turn off the heat. Sprinkle in the Parmesan and stir until it melts into a silky sauce. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
  • Finish with a little parsley and lemon zest if desired. Serve hot.

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Note

For a little extra texture, add peas in the last minute of simmering, or toss in cooked chicken at the end. Rub the pot with a cut garlic clove before cooking for flavor enhancement.
Keyword creamy pasta, Easy Dinner, garlic parmesan pasta, one-pot pasta, Pasta