One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Creamy, cheesy, and full of garlic flavor, it comes together easily with just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions along with the minced garlic. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water if desired.
- Step 2: Return the pasta to the pot and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese over low heat. Stir continuously until the sauce is creamy and the cheese has melted, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, sauté the garlic in a little olive oil before cooking the pasta.
- Add cooked chicken or steamed vegetables to make it a complete meal.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a blend of Italian cheeses for a slightly different flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely. Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
PrintOne-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
This One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy garlic and parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe uses minimal ingredients and cookware, creating a comforting dish with maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta (such as penne or rotini)
Garlic and Cream Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta with garlic: In a large pot, combine the pasta, minced garlic, and enough water to cover the pasta by about an inch. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the pasta is tender and most of the water has been absorbed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Make the creamy sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, coating the pasta evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- You can use different pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli based on preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a more authentic flavor than pre-grated cheese.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for added color and freshness.
- To add protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp pairs well with this dish.
Keywords: One-pot pasta, Garlic Parmesan pasta, Creamy pasta, Easy dinner, Italian pasta recipe, Quick pasta recipe

