One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is rich, cozy, and incredibly easy to make—all in a single pot. With bold garlic flavor, a silky cream sauce, and pantry-friendly ingredients, this comforting pasta dinner is perfect for busy weeknights and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta penne, fettuccine, or linguine
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic finely minced
- 3 cups water or broth
- ¾ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant (do not brown).
- Pour in water or broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add uncooked pasta and salt.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring often, until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed (about 10–12 minutes).
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
- Season with black pepper and optional red pepper flakes.
- Remove from heat and rest 2–3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking as the pasta cooks.
- Keep heat low after adding cream to avoid separation.
- Sauce thickens as it rests—add a splash of milk if needed.