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One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Emma
This easy one-pot creamy garlic pasta delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup. Cook the pasta directly in a rich, garlicky sauce for maximum flavor absorption. Available in both dairy and vegan versions to suit any dietary preference.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 362 kcal

Equipment

  • Large wide skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or pasta fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients
  

Dairy Version:

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 4-6 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 pound spaghetti or fettuccine
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 tablespoons dried parsley

Vegan Version:

  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 shallot finely chopped
  • 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1.5 cups plain unsweetened soy milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 8 oz dry fettuccine or preferred pasta
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Dried oregano to taste
  • Red pepper flakes to taste
  • 2-3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • Fresh basil or parsley for serving

Instructions
 

  • Prepare ingredients: Gather and measure all ingredients. Mince garlic and chop shallot (if using vegan version).
  • Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large, wide skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic (and shallots for vegan version), stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic. For dairy version, add butter and let it melt completely.
  • Add liquids: Pour in broth (and soy milk for vegan version), bringing mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
  • Cook pasta: Add dry pasta to the simmering liquid, gently pushing it down as it softens to ensure all pieces are submerged. Cook for 12-20 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes to prevent sticking.
  • Monitor consistency: Continue cooking until pasta reaches al dente texture and sauce has naturally thickened. If liquid reduces too quickly, add more broth or soy milk as needed.
  • Finish the dish: Remove from heat and immediately stir in cheese (Parmesan or nutritional yeast), cream (or remaining soy milk), and herbs. Mix thoroughly until well combined and sauce is silky smooth.
  • Serve immediately: Serve hot for best texture and flavor. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Pasta Choice: Fettuccine and spaghetti work best, but you can use bucatini, rotini, or other shapes. Adjust cooking time for different pasta types.
  • Pan Size: Use a wide skillet that can accommodate your pasta length comfortably to prevent sticking.
  • Stirring: Stir frequently during cooking to prevent pasta from sticking to the pan.
  • Vegan Milk: Plain unsweetened soy milk provides the best creaminess. Avoid coconut milk as it can overpower the garlic flavor.
  • Storage: Leftovers keep for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
  • Not Freezer-Friendly: This dish doesn't freeze well due to the cream base.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Amount per Serving
Calories
362
% Daily Value*
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Keyword creamy garlic pasta, one pot pasta
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