Print

Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

creamy one-pot garlic parmesan pasta - featured image
Print Recipe

A rich, velvety pasta dish made in a single pot using the starch from the pasta to create a natural emulsion with heavy cream and parmesan cheese, resulting in a restaurant-quality meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

  • Unsalted butter
  • Fresh garlic cloves, finely minced
  • Chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium)
  • Heavy cream
  • Uncooked short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
  • Grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated from a block)
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Melt the unsalted butter in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until foamy and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for about 60 seconds until fragrant and just starting to turn golden.
  3. Pour in the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Let the pasta simmer in the liquid for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  5. Check for doneness by tasting a noodle; it should be al dente. If too thick before tender, add a splash more broth or water.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 30 seconds to cool slightly.
  7. Sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon or tongs until the cheese melts and creates a glossy, thick sauce.
  8. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of hot water. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not add cheese to a boiling pot as it will seize up and become grainy. Always remove from heat before adding parmesan. For gluten-free, use brown rice or chickpea pasta. For dairy-free, swap butter for olive oil, cream for coconut cream, and parmesan for nutritional yeast. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, creamy garlic parmesan pasta, easy weeknight dinner, quick pasta recipe, gluten-free option, dairy-free option

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/creamy-one-pot-garlic-parmesan-pasta-5-step-easy-dinner/