Creamy One Pot Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy One Pot Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor and super simple to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients like pasta, cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, you can create a rich and indulgent meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. Plus, cooking everything in one pot saves you time and reduces the need for extra dishes, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for the family or need a comforting meal on a busy night, this dish checks all the boxes.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work great)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Optional: Red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or sautéed vegetables (like spinach or mushrooms) for extra flavor

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

2. Add the liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

3. Cook the pasta: Add the pasta to the pot, stirring to make sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture back to a simmer, then cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.

4. Add the cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and continue stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce, making it creamy and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

5. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. You can also add extra toppings like red pepper flakes, sautéed vegetables, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: For extra protein, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the dish. Stir them in after the pasta has cooked.

• Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a wholesome vegetarian version.

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking or top the pasta with a drizzle of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

• Make it lighter: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, or use Greek yogurt for a tangy, creamy texture.

• Add herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary can elevate the dish’s flavor. Stir them in when you add the Parmesan cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any small pasta shape, such as fusilli, farfalle, or elbow macaroni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

Can I use a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by using a dairy-free cream substitute, such as coconut cream or cashew cream. For the cheese, use a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the pasta cook for a few extra minutes without the lid to allow the liquid to reduce. Alternatively, you can add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or additional cheese to thicken it.

Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables separately or add them directly to the pot as the pasta is cooking for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks, and make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. If the pasta starts to stick, add a splash of extra broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can cook the pasta and sauce in advance and store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, combine them, heat through, and stir in the cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy One Pot Pasta is a simple, comforting dish that combines creamy pasta with bold flavors in just one pot. It’s quick, easy, and highly customizable, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Whether you add protein, vegetables, or extra herbs, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this recipe is a go-to favorite that’s both indulgent and convenient!