This One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food! It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, all made in just one pan to save you time and cleanup!
I love how the garlic gives it a lovely aroma, and who doesn’t appreciate less dishwashing? I often throw in some veggies for extra crunch. It’s a family favorite at my house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine gives that perfect, creamy coating, but you can swap it for spaghetti or penne if you’d like. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is another great choice if you’re looking for healthier options.
Broth: Chicken broth adds extra flavor, but vegetable broth works just as well for a vegetarian version. You might also use homemade broth for a richer taste, or even low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream is rich and creamy, you could use half-and-half for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk or a nut-based cream can work, though the flavor will slightly change.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the best for flavor, but grated alternatives work too. If you’re on a budget, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan version, adding a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to perfectly cooked pasta lies in the technique! First, cook the pasta directly in the broth and cream mixture. It helps the pasta absorb all those delicious flavors. Here are some tips:
- Keep the heat at medium-low. This ensures a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil, which can make the pasta gummy.
- Stir occasionally! This prevents the pasta from sticking together and helps it cook evenly.
- Taste test! Start checking your pasta for doneness a couple of minutes before the suggested time. You want it al dente—firm to the bite.
Following these steps will guarantee creamy, flavorful pasta that your family will love!
One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta (uncooked)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta will take about 5 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 20 minutes from start to finish! It’s a quick and easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet or wide pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute. You want it to be fragrant but be careful not to brown the garlic.
2. Combine Broth and cream:
Pour in your chicken broth along with the heavy cream, and bring everything to a gentle boil. This mixture will form the base of your creamy sauce.
3. Add the Fettuccine:
Now it’s time to add the uncooked fettuccine pasta. Press it down into the liquid as much as possible so it can absorb the flavors as it cooks.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta cook uncovered. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has absorbed—this should take about 12-15 minutes.
5. Mix in the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce turns creamy. This will give your pasta that rich and cheesy flavor.
6. Season and Garnish:
Add salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Finally, stir in the chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Remove from heat.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate up your creamy, garlicky pasta, and garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese if you’d like. Serve it right away for the best taste!
This creamy, garlicky pasta is perfect for a quick and comforting meal made in just one pan!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute regular fettuccine with gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta often cooks a bit faster. Ensure to check the package instructions for the best results!
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Pasta Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli. Just toss them in during the cooking process, making sure they have enough time to soften and absorb some of that delicious sauce.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can make this recipe dairy-free by using a plant-based cream alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream, and substituting the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Enjoy the creaminess without the guilt!
