One-Pot Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with effortless preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta is a crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up in no time.

The creamy sauce, infused with the aromatic essence of garlic and the warmth of butter, coats each strand of pasta, creating a luscious experience with every bite. Add parmesan and a handful of fresh herbs for a touch of elegance and freshness. Pair it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread, and you have a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make.



This pasta dish has swiftly become my go-to option whenever I’m pressed for time but need a filling meal. Typically, by the time the kids have unpacked their school bags and changed out of their sports clothes, this delicious pasta is ready to serve! I enjoy adding protein whenever I have it on hand, as it enhances the dish’s heartiness.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 pound pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream (or 2 cups milk for lower fat)
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Protein – optional add grilled chicken or steak
Instructions:
- Saute garlic paste. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the garlic paste and stir well. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and golden.
- Toast pasta. Add pasta and stir until it is well coated. Toast the noodles as you would when preparing a risotto.
- Make sauce. Pour in the liquid until it just barely covers the pasta. Add butter, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture and cover it. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the pasta to soak up the liquid while releasing its starches.
- Add cheese. Once most of the liquid has been absorbed and the pasta is al dente, stir in the Parmesan cheese.
- Taste test. Sample the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper to your liking.
- Enjoy!
Serve Immediately: This pasta won’t wait for anyone! The sauce will quickly thicken as it cools down.
Tips:
- Don’t Walk Away: Due to the minimal liquid, this pasta has a tendency to stick to the bottom if left unattended. Consider it similar to preparing a risotto that takes around 10 minutes!
- Liquid Control: If the pasta remains firm and the liquid has evaporated, gradually add a splash of broth (about 1/4 cup at a time) until it is fully cooked.
- Fresh Grate Only: I cannot emphasize this enough—purchase a wedge of Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself. It melts seamlessly into the sauce, creating a smooth texture, while the pre-packaged shaker can result in a grainy consistency.
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One-Pot Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
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- Author: Kristen Sellentin
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with effortless preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta is a crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 pound pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream (or 2 cups milk for lower fat)
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Protein – optional add grilled chicken or steak
Instructions
- Saute garlic paste. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the garlic paste and stir well. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and golden.
- Toast pasta. Add pasta and stir until it is well coated. Toast the noodles as you would when preparing a risotto.
- Make sauce. Pour in the liquid until it just barely covers the pasta. Add butter, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture and cover it. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the pasta to soak up the liquid while releasing its starches.
- Add cheese. Once most of the liquid has been absorbed and the pasta is al dente, stir in the Parmesan cheese.
- Taste test. Sample the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper to your liking.
- Enjoy!
Serve Immediately: This pasta won’t wait for anyone! The sauce will quickly thicken as it cools down.
Equipment

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Sidney Flatware Sets – Light Gold
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T-Fal Preserve Ceramic Nonstick Saute Pan with Lid
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T-fal Preserve Ceramic, Non stick Cookware Set
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Tips:
- Don’t Walk Away: Due to the minimal liquid, this pasta has a tendency to stick to the bottom if left unattended. Consider it similar to preparing a risotto that takes around 10 minutes!
- Liquid Control: If the pasta remains firm and the liquid has evaporated, gradually add a splash of broth (about 1/4 cup at a time) until it is fully cooked.
- Fresh Grate Only: I cannot emphasize this enough—purchase a wedge of Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself. It melts seamlessly into the sauce, creating a smooth texture, while the pre-packaged shaker can result in a grainy consistency.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian






