What can I add to creamy garlic pasta to make it a complete meal?

To turn creamy garlic pasta into a full meal, try adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta. Vegetables like spinach, roasted broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes also pair beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce. These additions enhance flavor and add protein or fiber to round out the dish.

Can I make creamy garlic pasta ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently over low heat and add a splash of cream or milk to restore the silky texture. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

What should I do if my garlic pasta sauce is too thick?

If your sauce thickens too much, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Adding liquid gradually while stirring will help restore the perfect creamy consistency without watering down the flavor.

Creamy Garlic Pasta – Best One-Pot Recipe

Name: Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons olive oil: base for sautéing and flavor infusion; 4 garlic cloves, minced: core flavor and aroma; 2 tablespoons butter: adds richness and smooth texture; 3 cups chicken broth: enhances flavor and cooks pasta; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: subtle heat and depth; 1/4 teaspoon salt: balances and amplifies flavors; 1/2 pound spaghetti: absorbs sauce and provides the main texture; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: melts into sauce for cheesy flavor; 3/4 cup heavy cream: creates creamy, luxurious texture; 1 1/2 tablespoons dried parsley: adds color and herbaceous note

Description

This creamy garlic pasta recipe delivers a rich, cheesy, and garlicky comfort dish made in one pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an indulgent meal, this pasta combines spaghetti, garlic, Parmesan, and cream for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

Scale

2 teaspoons olive oil: base for sautéing and flavor infusion
4 garlic cloves, minced: core flavor and aroma
2 tablespoons butter: adds richness and smooth texture
3 cups chicken broth: enhances flavor and cooks pasta
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: subtle heat and depth
1/4 teaspoon salt: balances and amplifies flavors
1/2 pound spaghetti: absorbs sauce and provides the main texture
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: melts into sauce for cheesy flavor
3/4 cup heavy cream: creates creamy, luxurious texture
1 1/2 tablespoons dried parsley: adds color and herbaceous note

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add butter and stir until melted and combined with garlic oil.
Pour in chicken broth, then season with black pepper and salt. Bring to a gentle boil.
Add uncooked spaghetti to the pan. Stir occasionally and cook for about 12 minutes, until al dente. Add more broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Lower heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and dried parsley until fully combined and creamy.
Serve immediately while hot and garnish with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
Add a splash of broth or cream if reheating to maintain creaminess.
Customize with proteins like shrimp or chicken, or add veggies for a balanced meal.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 543 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 1388 mg
Fat: 32 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 47 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 17 g
Cholesterol: 99 mg