This One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a quick and tasty meal that brings together pasta, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan. It’s all cooked in one pot for easy clean-up!
I love how creamy and cheesy it turns out, and the garlic smell makes my kitchen feel cozy. Plus, who can resist a dish that means fewer dishes to wash? 🙌
Making this pasta is as easy as boiling water. Just toss the ingredients in, let it cook, and dinner is ready! It’s my go-to for busy nights when I want something hearty and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its fun shape that holds onto sauce well. If you have penne or fusilli on hand, they work perfectly too! Gluten-free pasta can also be used for a gluten-free version.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute. I find about a teaspoon of garlic powder is roughly equivalent to a clove.
Broth: Chicken broth gives a deeper flavor, but vegetable broth is a great option for vegetarians. Homemade broth adds a nice touch if you’re up for it!
Milk: For creaminess, whole milk is my go-to. However, you can use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option. The texture may be slightly different, but it still works!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts best. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano is a tasty alternative, offering a slightly sharper flavor.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly in One Pan?
Cooking pasta in one pan is simple, but here are some tips to get it just right:
- Start with enough liquid! Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in broth and milk.
- Stir often during cooking to keep clumps from forming and ensure even cooking.
- Watch the time! Taste test the pasta a minute or two before the suggested time to prevent overcooking.
- Once pasta is cooked, removing it from heat immediately helps keep it al dente instead of mushy.
With these tips, you’ll whip up a delicious one-pan pasta dish that’s creamy and full of flavor!
One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ½ cups (600 ml) chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and roughly 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have a delicious meal in around 20 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Base:
Begin by heating a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter, allowing them to melt together until they are hot and bubbly. This will create a nice flavor base for your pasta.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Once your oil and butter are ready, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute—just until it’s fragrant. Keep an eye on it, as garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter.
3. Add Liquids and Pasta:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and milk. Stir everything together well, then add the uncooked rotini pasta. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid by giving it a good stir.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking together. You want the pasta to be tender with some liquid absorbed.
5. Stir in the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked to your preference, take the pan off the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over your pasta for a lovely pop of color and flavor. If you like, finish it off with a little extra Parmesan on top. Serve it warm and enjoy your one pan garlic parmesan pasta!
This dish is not only quick to prepare but also rich and creamy with a delightful garlic flavor, making it a perfect comfort food option. Enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is a great choice for this dish, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes might require slight adjustments.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this a vegetarian dish, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Everything else remains the same, and it will still be creamy and delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Parsley?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, you can omit it or use another herb like basil or chives for garnish. Dried herbs can work too; just remember to use less as they are more concentrated in flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to help loosen the sauce as it may thicken when stored.
