Description
This creamy garlic parmesan pasta is a quick, one-pan dinner that’s rich, comforting, and packed with garlicky, cheesy flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
- 4 large cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- 1 cup (90g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Mince the garlic, grate the parmesan, and chop parsley if using. Measure out broth and cream.
- Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil; let melt and shimmer.
- Add minced garlic (and red pepper flakes if using). Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, not brown.
- Lay dry pasta in the pan (break if needed to fit). Pour in broth, ensuring pasta is mostly submerged. Gently press with a spoon.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes. Add extra broth or water if needed. Pasta should be al dente and most liquid absorbed.
- Lower heat to low. Stir in heavy cream until combined. Let bubble gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Sprinkle in grated parmesan, stirring constantly until melted and sauce is silky. Add more cream or broth if too thick.
- Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Fold in chopped parsley if using. Top with extra parmesan if desired.
- Serve immediately, garnished with more parsley, red pepper flakes, and parmesan.
Notes
For gluten-free, use GF pasta. For dairy-free, use plant-based cream and vegan parmesan. Stir often to prevent sticking. Add extra broth if pasta absorbs liquid too quickly. Freshly grated parmesan melts best. Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or veggies for variations. Leftovers keep for 3 days; add a splash of cream or milk when reheating.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/4 of recipe (1 bowl)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 520
- Fat: 17
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 52
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 15
Keywords: creamy garlic parmesan pasta, one pan pasta, easy pasta dinner, weeknight pasta, Italian pasta, garlic parmesan, comfort food, vegetarian option, quick pasta recipe