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one-pot creamy garlic parmesan pasta - featured image

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Easy 20-Min Dinner

  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A quick, creamy, and garlicky pasta dish cooked entirely in one pot. This recipe uses the starch from the pasta to create a rich sauce without needing a separate roux or cream reduction, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Optional: 2 cups fresh spinach
  • Optional: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken

Instructions

  1. Prep ingredients by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and grating the Parmesan cheese.
  2. Place a large pot over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Pour in the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a rolling boil.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking. Cook until pasta is al dente.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
  7. Stir in the Italian seasoning and black pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
  8. Serve immediately topped with extra Parmesan, fresh black pepper, and optional fresh basil or olive oil.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese as pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Stir frequently during simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Remove from heat before adding cheese to prevent graininess. This dish does not freeze well due to the dairy content; store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 3
  • Sodium: 380
  • Fat: 18
  • Saturated Fat: 10
  • Carbohydrates: 48
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 15

Keywords: one-pot pasta, creamy garlic parmesan pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meals, quick pasta, comfort food, family friendly

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Find it online: https://dinnerecipes.online/one-pot-creamy-garlic-parmesan-pasta-easy-20-min-dinner/