Description
This Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, comforting one-pot dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Featuring tender spaghetti cooked directly in savory vegetable broth, then tossed with garlic, butter, parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream, it’s an easy, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or quick dinners. Garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe delivers rich, cheesy goodness without the fuss of multiple pots and pans.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Broth
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
Flavorings and Dairy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but not browned, to release its aroma and flavor.
- Boil Broth: Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and bring it to a rolling boil. This will serve as the cooking liquid for the pasta.
- Cook Pasta: Add the spaghetti or fettuccine directly into the boiling broth. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Do not drain the liquid after cooking.
- Add Dairy and Cheese: Once the pasta is al dente, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the butter, heavy cream (or milk), and grated parmesan cheese until everything melts together and creates a creamy sauce coating the pasta evenly.
- Season: Add the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the flavors thoroughly.
- Simmer Sauce: Let the pasta simmer gently for 1-2 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly, enhancing its richness and texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pot from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh herbal note and a pop of color. Serve the dish immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative.
- Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a meatier flavor if not strictly vegetarian.
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms or cooked chicken for added protein.
- The pasta water/starchy broth helps make the sauce creamy, so do not drain it.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
