One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the ultimate easy homemade dinner that delivers creamy, garlicky flavor with minimal cleanup. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The sauce is rich, smooth, and perfectly coats every noodle for a satisfying bite. Plus, it’s beginner-friendly and uses simple pantry staples you probably have on hand. Pair it with my Herb Butter Roasted Whole Turkey Recipe for a complete meal!
Why You'll Love One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy Homemade Comfort Meal
Make this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
- Ready in under 40 minutes with one pot for quick cleanup.
- Creamy, garlicky sauce made from simple, pantry ingredients.
- Perfect comfort food that’s family-friendly and budget-friendly.
- Great for meal prep and reheats well for leftovers.
Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy Homemade Comfort Meal
Pasta: Use linguine or spaghetti for best texture; gluten-free pasta works too but adjust cooking time.Chicken broth: Low-sodium preferred to control saltiness; vegetable broth can be substituted for vegetarian version.
- Pasta: Use linguine or spaghetti for best texture; gluten-free pasta works too but adjust cooking time.
- Chicken broth: Low-sodium preferred to control saltiness; vegetable broth can be substituted for vegetarian version.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy Homemade Comfort Meal are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy Homemade Comfort Meal
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Sauté garlic and butter: In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, careful not to burn.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Add liquids and pasta: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil, then add pasta in a single layer.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Simmer and stir: Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Cook until pasta is al dente and liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce, about 15 minutes.
Expert Tips for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy Homemade Comfort Meal
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melt quality.
- Stir frequently while cooking to prevent pasta from sticking or clumping.
- Reserve a small amount of pasta water to loosen sauce if it gets too thick.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy Homemade Comfort Meal
Make this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Lemon zest for brightness
Instructions
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Sauté garlic and butter: In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, careful not to burn.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil, then add pasta in a single layer.
- Simmer and stir: Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Cook until pasta is al dente and liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce, about 15 minutes.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well until creamy and smooth.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy Homemade Comfort Meal FAQs
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently with added liquid to maintain creaminess.
Whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of butter can work, but texture will be less rich.
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing as dairy sauces may separate.
It may have cooked too long or the liquid wasn't sufficient. Use enough broth and stir frequently to prevent drying out.
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Before You Go
If you try this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy Homemade Comfort Meal, I’d love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.