This One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-easy to make! Just toss everything in one pan and watch the magic happen as the pasta cooks to perfection.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that’s quick to clean up? I often catch myself making it on busy weeknights when I need something simple yet tasty!
I really enjoy how the garlic flavor shines through, and the creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine works wonderfully here. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta like brown rice or chickpea pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may differ from regular pasta.
Broth: For a lighter flavor, vegetable broth is a great option, especially if you’re vegetarian. If you’re not avoiding meat, chicken broth adds an extra depth to the dish. Homemade broth is fantastic if you have it!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter dish, you can substitute half-and-half. If you want a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or a non-dairy cream option. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese works best; it’s creamier and melts beautifully. If you can’t find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good alternative or even nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of the dish. If you want to keep it dairy-free, olive oil or a plant-based butter can work well too.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Cooked Perfectly?
The key to perfectly cooked pasta is watching the pot closely. Here’s how to avoid common mishaps:
- Keep the heat at medium-high until boiling to get the pasta going, then lower it to medium-low to simmer gently.
- Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking together or to the pan.
- Taste the pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time; it should be al dente, meaning it’s firm but not hard.
- Once it’s cooked, remember that residual heat will continue to cook it slightly after you remove it from heat.
With these tips, your One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta will turn out creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious every time! Enjoy the cooking process!
One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta (uncooked)
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 15 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something quick yet satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a large skillet or wide pan, combine the uncooked fettuccine or linguine pasta with minced garlic, butter, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is mixed together nicely.
2. Heat It Up:
Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to each other. It’s like a little dance—you’ve got this!
3. Simmer Until Cooked:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has evaporated. This usually takes about 12-15 minutes. Make sure to taste the pasta to see if it’s done to your liking!
4. Add the Cheese:
Take your freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir it into the pasta mixture. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy, coating the pasta perfectly. Yummy!
5. Season It Up:
Now it’s time to season! Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Taste it and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You want it to be just right!
6. Final Touches:
Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. This adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta immediately, and feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan cheese on top if you’d like. It’s ready to be enjoyed!
Dig in and savor the rich, creamy, and garlicky goodness of your One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta can be a healthier choice and gives a nice nutty flavor. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free pasta like brown rice or chickpea pasta; just monitor the cooking time carefully, as it may differ from regular pasta.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just be aware that the flavor might change slightly with different substitutes, but they can still work well in this recipe!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables or Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking. You can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed!