I’m always looking for ways to get a delicious, hearty meal on the table without a mountain of dishes, especially on a busy weeknight. This Pasta Recipe One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight is your simple answer. It offers a truly comforting aroma of savory garlic and rich Parmesan that fills my kitchen as it simmers. Our easy method ensures delicious results every time, perfect for a quick family dinner after a busy day.
Simple Ingredients for Your One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Gathering a few pantry staples and fresh additions ensures a flavorful and hearty meal every time. This easy recipe shines with its straightforward components, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want a homemade, family-friendly dinner.
Core ingredients: Pasta (penne, rotini), chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream, fresh garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, butter, olive oil, salt, black pepper.
- Pasta: 8 oz (225g) penne, rotini, or orecchiette, for a satisfying ‘al dente’ bite.
- Broth: 4 cups (960ml) chicken or vegetable broth, provides liquid and depth of flavor.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, for a rich, velvety sauce (or half-and-half for a lighter touch).
- Fresh Garlic: 4-5 cloves fresh garlic, minced, for aromatic depth.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup (90g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for superior melt and flavor (Pecorino Romano also works beautifully).
- Butter: 2 Tbsp (28g) unsalted butter, for sautéing aromatics.
- Olive Oil: 1 Tbsp (15ml) extra virgin olive oil, for sautéing.
- Salt: 1 tsp fine sea salt, to season (adjust to taste).
- Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, for a gentle spice.
Optional add-ins & smart swaps (to elevate your one-pot garlic Parmesan pasta): Add cooked protein like shredded chicken, sausage, or shrimp. Veggies: fresh spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced mushrooms. Cream alternatives: half-and-half, whole milk. Cheese swaps: Pecorino Romano, nutritional yeast (for dairy-free).
- Proteins: Add 1 cup cooked shredded chicken, shrimp, or crumbled Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
- Veggies: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or halved cherry tomatoes during the last minute for added nutrients and color. I often toss in a handful of fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking; it wilts right down and adds lovely greens for my family.
- Cream Alternatives: Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, adjusting simmer time if needed.
- Cheese Swaps: Pecorino Romano adds a sharper, saltier kick, or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free alternative.
Premium/healthy variations: Choose whole wheat pasta, organic low-sodium broth, grass-fed butter, or plant-based cream.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Boost fiber content and create a more wholesome dish.
- Organic Low-Sodium Broth: Controls sodium intake and offers cleaner flavor.
- Grass-Fed Butter: A quality option for richer flavor.
- Plant-Based Cream: Ideal for dairy-free diets, ensuring a creamy texture.
Seasonal or freshness notes: Fresh garlic, vibrant parsley, fragrant basil, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, tender asparagus, fresh corn, or peas.
- Fresh Herbs: Vibrant parsley or fragrant basil brighten the flavor profile.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add a sweet, concentrated tomato essence.
- Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate tender asparagus tips or sweet corn and peas during spring and summer.
Step-by-Step Preparation for Your Easy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight Pasta
This Pasta Recipe One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight is incredibly simple, designed for minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Follow these steps for a perfectly creamy, rich dish.
1. Sauté aromatics: Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add minced fresh garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (don’t burn!).
Melt 2 Tbsp (28g) butter and 1 Tbsp (15ml) olive oil in a large 10-inch skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 4-5 cloves minced fresh garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes wonderfully fragrant and lightly golden; if it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
2. Combine liquids & pasta: Pour in broth and heavy cream. Add uncooked pasta, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
Pour in 4 cups (960ml) broth and 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream. Add 8 oz (225g) uncooked pasta, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle, steady simmer.
3. Cook pasta: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, cooking until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, creating a creamy sauce (8-12 minutes, depending on pasta type).
Stir occasionally every few minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has absorbed, forming a thick, creamy sauce that beautifully coats the pasta.
4. Finish & serve: Remove from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Remove the pot from the heat. Immediately stir in 1 cup (90g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and smoothly incorporated into the sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil before serving this delightful easy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight Pasta.
Inline options for special diets: For a gluten-free one-pot pasta, use gluten-free pasta and verify broth. For a vegan one-pot garlic Parmesan weeknight pasta, use vegetable broth, plant-based cream, and nutritional yeast. Lower-carb: Use chickpea or lentil pasta, or add spiralized zucchini during the last few minutes.
For a gluten-free one-pot pasta, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your broth is certified gluten-free. To make a vegan version of this One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight Pasta, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, use a plant-based cream alternative, and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for that cheesy flavor. For lower-carb options, consider chickpea or lentil pasta, or stir in spiralized zucchini noodles during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
Brief troubleshooting tips: If sauce is too thick, add a splash more broth or water. If too thin, simmer a bit longer or stir in extra Parmesan.
If your sauce looks too thick after cooking, simply add 1-2 Tbsp more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for an extra 1-2 minutes to allow it to reduce further, or stir in another tablespoon of Parmesan cheese for thickening.
Best Times to Enjoy and Storage Tips for Your One-Pot Pasta
- Situations: Ideal for busy family dinners, quick weeknight meals, comforting Sunday suppers, or potlucks.
- Serving pairings: A crisp green salad, crusty garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables.
- Storage and reheating: Fridge: Store leftover Pasta Recipe One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Freezer: Up to 1 month (texture may change). Reheat: Stovetop with a splash of broth or milk.
Health, Nutrition & Lifestyle Benefits of This One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight Pasta
- Connect to diet and lifestyle needs: Easily customizable for easy healthy dinner ideas. Boost protein with lean meats. Increase fiber with whole wheat pasta or more veggies.
This dish provides satisfying, sustained energy for busy days. It’s a complete, family-friendly meal when you add protein and vegetables. Minimal cleanup makes it a perfect quick meal prep recipe, delivering comfort without fuss.
How This One-Pot Pasta Recipe Matches Everyday Goals
- Link to reader needs: This Pasta Recipe One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight is budget-friendly and time-saving. It offers wellness control through ingredient customization.
- Convenience: The ultimate easy weeknight meal with significantly less washing up.
- Versatility: Adaptable to whatever protein or vegetables you have on hand.
- Kid-approved: A universally loved flavor profile, pleasing even picky eaters.
- Reduces food waste: Great for using up small amounts of cheese, herbs, or leftover veggies.
Pro Tips and Adjustments for Your One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight Pasta
- Technique refinements: Use freshly grated Parmesan for superior flavor and a smoother melt. Avoid overcooking pasta for optimal texture.
- Seasoning and spice adjustments: Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or fresh herbs like basil to brighten flavor.
- Allergy-friendly or kid-friendly modifications: Reduce garlic for sensitive palates. Swap heavy cream for milk or half-and-half. For families with picky eaters, I’ve successfully incorporated a spoonful of pureed butternut squash into the broth, which adds nutrients without changing the flavor much.
FAQs about One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight Pasta
Is this One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight Pasta good for weight loss?
It can be! Opt for whole wheat or chickpea pasta to boost fiber and protein. Pair it with lean protein and plenty of vegetables. Controlling portion sizes is key to align with your health goals.
Where to buy quality ingredients for this pasta recipe?
Most ingredients are at any local grocery store. For the best flavor in your Pasta Recipe One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight, choose fresh garlic and quality Parmesan from the deli. I always pick Parmesan in a block to grate myself.
Can I use this One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight Pasta in meal prep plans?
Absolutely! Cook a larger batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners, storing in the fridge for 3-4 days. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
What kind of pasta works best for a One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight Pasta?
Shorter shapes like penne, rotini, or orecchiette are ideal. They cook evenly and absorb the rich sauce beautifully in the one-pot method. I find fusilli also works great for holding the sauce.
Can I make this One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight Pasta vegetarian?
Yes, easily! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Ensure your Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly, or use 1/4 cup nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free alternative.
How do I make the sauce extra creamy?
For the creamiest Pasta Recipe One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight, use full-fat heavy cream and plenty of Parmesan. Stirring well after removing from heat helps create a luxurious, emulsified sauce.
This Pasta Recipe One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight truly simplifies homemade cooking, delivering deliciousness without the fuss. I often rely on this recipe to bring a smile to my family’s faces on the busiest nights. Save this easy family dinner idea recipe to your Pinterest board for a go-to easy meal.
Pasta Recipe One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe provides a delicious, hearty meal with minimal dishes, perfect for a busy weeknight. It features a comforting aroma of savory garlic and rich Parmesan, ensuring creamy, flavorful results with straightforward pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) penne, rotini, or orecchiette pasta
- 4 cups (960ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter touch)
- 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup (90g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
- 2 Tbsp (28g) unsalted butter
- 1 Tbsp (15ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp fine sea salt, to season (adjust to taste)
- 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper, for a gentle spice
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken, shrimp, or crumbled Italian sausage (optional, for a heartier meal)
- A handful of fresh spinach or halved cherry tomatoes (optional, for nutrients and color)
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
- Sun-dried tomatoes (optional, for sweet, concentrated tomato essence)
- Tender asparagus tips, sweet corn, or peas (optional, seasonal veggies)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt 2 Tbsp (28g) butter and 1 Tbsp (15ml) olive oil in a large 10-inch skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 4-5 cloves minced fresh garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes wonderfully fragrant and lightly golden; if it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- Combine Liquids and Pasta: Pour in 4 cups (960ml) broth and 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream. Add 8 oz (225g) uncooked pasta, 1 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle, steady simmer.
- Cook Pasta: Stir occasionally every few minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has absorbed, forming a thick, creamy sauce that beautifully coats the pasta.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from the heat. Immediately stir in 1 cup (90g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and smoothly incorporated into the sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil before serving this delightful easy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Weeknight Pasta.
Notes
If your sauce looks too thick after cooking, add 1-2 Tbsp more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for an extra 1-2 minutes or stir in another tablespoon of Parmesan cheese for thickening. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and verify broth. For a vegan version, use vegetable broth, plant-based cream, and nutritional yeast. For lower-carb, use chickpea or lentil pasta or stir in spiralized zucchini during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (approx 250 g)
- Calories: 550 calories
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 22 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 72 mg
Keywords: one-pot, garlic Parmesan, weeknight, easy pasta, creamy, family dinner, minimal dishes, simple ingredients