Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, one-skillet weeknight dinner that feels utterly comforting, you’re going to fall head over heels for my Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!). This creamy, dreamy pasta comes together in under 20 minutes—all in a single pan—delivering a tangle of tender noodles cloaked in cheesy, garlicky goodness. Every component gets a chance to marry as it cooks, making for huge flavor pay-off with a blissfully minimal clean-up. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or indulging in a cozy solo meal, this dish elevates simple pantry staples into something you’ll crave all year long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s celebrate just how unfussy this ingredient list really is! With only a handful of essentials—each playing a starring role in flavor, richness, or texture—this dish proves that a great pasta can shine with simple, honest ingredients.

• Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated real Parmesan melts smoothly, adding that creamy, nutty depth that defines the sauce.
• Butter: Divided use ensures you build both flavor at the start and glossy richness at the finish.
• Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic brings its unmistakable aroma and a punch of savory warmth—don’t skimp!
• Chicken Broth: Using broth as your cooking liquid imparts extra savoriness and helps season every bite.
• Milk: The key to a silky sauce that balances the sharpness of the Parmesan while keeping things luscious.
• Angel Hair Pasta: Thin, delicate strands absorb the garlicky sauce quickly—keep an eye on them so they stay perfectly al dente.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings a pop of color and freshness right before serving.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!)

Step 1: Prep the Parmesan Cheese

Before you do anything else, grate your Parmesan cheese and let it rest at room temperature. This simple step helps it melt seamlessly into the sauce without clumping—trust me, it’s worth the extra two minutes!

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic

In a spacious skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter (save the rest for later). Once the butter’s bubbling and smells heavenly, add your minced garlic. Let it sizzle for one to two minutes until fragrant, giving it an occasional stir so nothing scorches—this is where that signature Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) flavor begins.

Step 3: Pour in Liquids and Bring to a Boil

Add the chicken broth to the garlicky butter and, if you’re feeling bold, toss in your favorite seasoning blend. While stirring, slowly pour in the milk—this creates a flavorful base for your sauce. Crank up the heat and bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Noodles

Drop in the angel hair pasta. You can break the strands in half to fit or simply use tongs to nudge them down as they soften. Let them simmer, uncovered, for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent clumping. Keep an eye on the timer, as angel hair cooks fast and you want it perfectly tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Finish with Butter and Parmesan

Once the noodles are just barely al dente, reduce the heat to low. Swirl in the remaining tablespoon of butter and toss to coat. Then, gradually sprinkle in the room-temperature Parmesan, stirring constantly for a smooth, glossy sauce. Don’t worry if it’s a bit thin at first—it’ll thicken up beautifully as it stands.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle a shower of fresh parsley over the top, giving your Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) that restaurant-style finish. Grab your plates, dish up, and serve immediately for the creamiest texture. A side of cheesy garlic bread wouldn’t hurt either!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!)

Garnishes

For an effortless upgrade, add an extra dusting of grated Parmesan and a handful of finely chopped fresh parsley just before serving. You can also finish with a crack of black pepper or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you love a gentle kick. These little touches make your Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) look as dazzling as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This one-pot wonder pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a light, vibrant contrast. For an all-out comfort meal, serve your pasta alongside buttery garlic bread (bonus points if there’s more cheese!), or round everything out with simple roasted chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) into a showstopper by topping it with sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken for extra protein. You can also twirl the pasta into individual nests on each plate, scatter toasted pine nuts on top, or use lemon zest for an elegant, fresh twist—the options are endless and always delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover pasta to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. It’ll keep happily in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce may thicken a bit after chilling, but that’s nothing a splash of milk can’t fix when you warm it up.

Freezing

While Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) is at its best freshly made, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to one month. Just be aware that the sauce might separate a little after thawing—give it a gentle stir and add a bit more milk when reheating to bring things back together.

Reheating

Warm your pasta gently over low heat on the stove, stirring in a tablespoon or two of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving works fine too—just cover and stir halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a little more cheese if you want to refresh that cheesy punch!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While angel hair gives Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) its signature silkiness, you can use spaghetti or fettuccine. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and you’ll have a vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as delicious.

Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Definitely! Toss in baby spinach, peas, or even mushrooms in the last few minutes of cooking—they’ll meld right into the creamy sauce and boost both flavor and nutrition.

What if I only have pre-shredded Parmesan?

Pre-shredded Parmesan can work in a pinch, but it doesn’t melt quite as smoothly as the real deal. For the best texture in your Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!), finely grate your own Parmesan if possible.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) stays creamy in the fridge for several days, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Just make sure to store it in a sealed container and add a splash of milk before reheating for maximum creaminess.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to whip up this shortcut comfort classic as I am to share it! Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) truly brings together crowd-pleasing flavors and weeknight simplicity in one fabulous pan—give it a try and watch it become a new favorite at your table.

Print