Creamy Garlic Pasta – Best One-Pot Recipe

Looking for the best Creamy Garlic Pasta that’s quick, indulgent, and loaded with flavor? This easy, one-pot recipe brings together pantry staples like spaghetti, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese to create a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends. Whether you’re a garlic lover, a fan of creamy comfort food, or just need a no-fail dinner idea, this pasta checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into why this will become your new go-to pasta recipe.

Why This Creamy Garlic Pasta Is a Must-Try

This creamy garlic pasta recipe is a winning combination of simplicity and indulgence. The magic lies in how the spaghetti is cooked directly in savory chicken broth, absorbing all the garlicky goodness. It’s also incredibly versatile — you can serve it as a hearty main or dress it up with shrimp, scallops, chicken, or roasted vegetables. The sauce, made from heavy cream, Parmesan, and garlic-infused butter, wraps every noodle in luxurious flavor, creating a comforting Italian-style dish that comes together effortlessly.

Ingredients Breakdown: Flavor in Every Element

• Olive Oil: Provides a flavorful base and helps to carry the aroma of garlic
• Garlic (minced): The hero ingredient — delivers robust, savory depth to the sauce
• Butter: Adds richness and creates a silky mouthfeel in the garlic sauce
• Chicken Broth: Infuses the pasta with savory flavor as it cooks, replacing the need for plain water
• Ground Black Pepper: Adds a warm, subtle kick to balance the creamy sauce
• Salt: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors in the dish
• Spaghetti: The perfect pasta for soaking up the garlic-infused broth and creamy sauce
• Parmesan Cheese (grated): Melts into the sauce for cheesy, nutty depth
• Heavy Cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture of the cream sauce
• Dried Parsley: Adds color and mild herbal freshness for balance

Smart Ingredient Swaps & Dietary Options

• Vegetarian Swap: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of creamy garlic pasta
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute plant-based butter, coconut cream or cashew cream, and nutritional yeast for a creamy vegan take
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure your broth and Parmesan are certified gluten-free
• Add-ins: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for texture and extra flavor

How to Make Creamy Garlic Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sauté the Garlic
   In a medium pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir gently for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic.
2. Melt the Butter
   Add butter to the pan and stir continuously until it melts and combines with the garlic oil.
3. Simmer the Broth
   Pour in chicken broth, then season with ground black pepper and a pinch of salt. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the Pasta
   Add uncooked spaghetti directly into the broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook for about 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but al dente. Add more broth if it becomes too dry or starts sticking.
5. Make it Creamy
   Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in grated Parmesan, heavy cream, and dried parsley. Mix until everything is well-combined and the sauce is smooth and silky.
6. Serve Immediately
   Plate the pasta while hot to preserve the creamy texture. Garnish with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for Creamy Pasta Success

• Avoid Overcooking Garlic: It should be golden and fragrant, not browned, to avoid bitterness
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Grated fresh cheese melts better and offers a richer flavor
• Stir Often: This helps the pasta cook evenly and prevents clumping or sticking to the pan
• Adjust Creaminess: Add a splash of broth or cream at the end if the sauce gets too thick
• Reheat Gently: Use low heat and a splash of milk or cream to revive leftovers without curdling

Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations

• Protein Pairings: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed scallops for a complete meal
• Vegetable Boost: Toss in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted red peppers for added nutrition
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers
• Cheese Lovers’ Twist: Stir in mozzarella or fontina for an ultra-cheesy version
• Make-Ahead Tip: The sauce is best fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 2–3 days and gently reheated

Elevating Comfort Food with Simple Ingredients

What makes creamy garlic pasta so beloved is its balance of rich, garlicky flavor with minimal effort. It’s a great go-to recipe when you want something fast, satisfying, and comforting without compromising on taste. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or when you just need a bowl of pure carb-laden joy, this pasta brings the warmth of home-cooked Italian-inspired comfort to your table.

Ready to take your pasta night to the next level? This creamy garlic pasta is your answer.

Bringing It All Together: Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Pasta Every Time

Creamy Garlic Pasta is more than just a quick dinner — it’s comfort food at its finest. With just a handful of kitchen staples, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes, all in one pan. The luxurious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce clings to every strand of spaghetti, offering a rich, satisfying bite in every forkful. Whether you’re cooking for guests or whipping up a late-night indulgence, this creamy garlic pasta will never disappoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Creamy Garlic Shrimp: A rich and garlicky seafood delight, this creamy garlic shrimp dish features a luscious sauce that perfectly mirrors the bold flavor of creamy garlic pasta. Ideal for pairing with rice or noodles, it’s a fast and flavorful dinner option.
• Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites: These golden, gooey bites offer the same cheesy indulgence found in creamy garlic pasta. Perfect as a side or appetizer, they’re bursting with garlic and Italian cheese flavor, making them a natural pairing.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken: This hearty, creamy chicken dish blends garlic and Parmesan just like the pasta recipe. It’s a satisfying, protein-rich alternative that maintains the same comforting and savory profile.

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