One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a delightful and easy dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table.
This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is not just easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. The creamy sauce combined with the rich garlic flavor makes it a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and indulgent sauce that coats every bite
- Made in one pot for easy cleanup
- Perfectly flavored with garlic and herbs
A Simple Yet Satisfying Dish
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich and creamy sauce enveloping the fettuccine, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy date night, this pasta dish delivers both flavor and satisfaction.
The use of garlic adds an aromatic depth to the dish, making every bite a burst of flavor. Garlic is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. This recipe allows you to enjoy the delightful taste of garlic while reaping its health benefits, making it a win-win for any meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts. You can easily double or triple the recipe to enjoy throughout the week. The creamy sauce holds up well in the fridge, making it a great leftover option for busy lunches or quick dinners. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Storing this dish is a breeze, and its flavors only intensify after a day in the fridge. This makes it a perfect candidate for batch cooking, allowing you to save time without sacrificing taste. You're just a few minutes away from enjoying a delicious homemade meal, making it ideal for those hectic weekdays.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for a nutritional boost and vibrant colors. You can also incorporate proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a complete meal.
For those who prefer a lighter version, consider substituting the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative or a lower-fat option. The recipe is flexible enough to accommodate various dietary restrictions while ensuring that each serving remains delicious and satisfying. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your signature twist on this classic dish.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Make it Creamy
Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a delightful meal.
Enjoy your creamy pasta with a side of garlic bread!
Tips for Perfect Pasta
To achieve perfectly cooked fettuccine, always refer to the package instructions for timing. Cooking pasta in the broth not only enhances its flavor but also reduces cleanup time. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
If you're uncertain about the consistency of the sauce, remember that it will thicken as it cools. For a creamier texture, you can always add a bit more heavy cream or a splash of pasta water during cooking. This will help you achieve your desired sauce thickness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience. The crispy garlic bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully, while a light salad adds a refreshing crunch. Consider dressing your salad with a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
For an extra touch, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes on top before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of spice that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a little vegetable broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from becoming too thick. This will help retain the dish's creamy texture and flavor.
If you're looking to freeze the pasta, it's best to do so before adding the cream. Freeze the cooked fettuccine and broth mixture, then add the cream when you're ready to reheat. This ensures the best texture and taste when enjoying your One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta later on.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
→ Can I add protein to this pasta?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms work great.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute with any pasta of your choice.
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a delightful and easy dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table.
Created by: Penelope Dawson
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a delightful meal.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 14g