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One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Simple Delight

by on August 22, 2025

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Are you ready for a creamy pasta dish that’s quick and easy? In this blog, I’ll show you how to make One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta that will wow your taste buds. With just one pot, you’ll create a simple delight full of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe uses easy ingredients and clear steps. Let’s dive in and make your next meal a hit!

To make One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, gather these items: - 12 ounces of penne pasta - 4 cups vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 6 cloves garlic, minced - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing) Each ingredient plays a key role in this dish. The penne pasta cooks well and holds the sauce nicely. The vegetable broth adds depth of flavor, while heavy cream makes it rich and smooth. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese brings a savory taste. Minced garlic and chopped onion add aroma and warmth. Olive oil helps with cooking, and red pepper flakes give a little kick. Season with salt and pepper to fit your taste. You can personalize your pasta with these options: - Add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. - Toss in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra veggies. - Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese. - Use herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor. Feel free to get creative with your One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta! Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need 12 ounces of penne pasta, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Also, grab 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 6 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 medium chopped onion. You will want 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you like spice), and salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, keep some fresh parsley handy for garnishing. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns clear. Next, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir for one more minute until the garlic smells great. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Then, add your penne pasta and stir well. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the pasta cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring from time to time. The pasta should be al dente when done, and most of the liquid will be absorbed. Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat again. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 2-3 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it sit for one minute before serving. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch! To get the best creamy texture, use heavy cream. This gives a rich feel. Stir the cream in slowly after cooking the pasta. This helps it blend better. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It melts smoother than pre-grated cheese. Mix it in while the pot is still warm. One big mistake is cooking the pasta too long. It should be al dente, not mushy. Keep an eye on the pot and stir often. Another mistake is adding cheese too fast. Add it gradually for even melting. Lastly, don’t skip tasting! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A large pot works best for this recipe. It gives enough space for the pasta and sauce. A wooden spoon is great for stirring. It won't scratch your pot and helps mix well. A measuring cup is key for the broth and cream. A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic easy. {{image_2}} You can easily add protein to this dish. Chicken and shrimp are great choices. If you use chicken, cook diced pieces in the pot first. Season them with salt and pepper before adding onions. For shrimp, add them after the pasta is almost done. Cook until they turn pink. This adds flavor and makes the dish heartier. Adding vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. Spinach, peas, or broccoli work well. Simply stir in spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. For peas or broccoli, add them when you add the pasta. This way, they cook just right. You can also use bell peppers or mushrooms for more taste. If you want to switch up the cheese, go for it! Gouda or mozzarella can add a different twist. Use a mix of cheeses for more depth. Just remember to aim for a creamy texture. If you try a strong cheese, cut back on the salt. This keeps the dish balanced and tasty. To store leftovers, let the pasta cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it. When you are ready to eat, grab a pot. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Heat over medium-low heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. This helps to warm it evenly. You can also use the microwave. Place your pasta in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for one to two minutes, checking often. You can freeze One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta if you want to save it longer. Use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top, as the pasta expands when frozen. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then reheat as described above for the best taste. Yes, you can. You can use any pasta shape you like. Bowtie, farfalle, or even spaghetti work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time. Different pasta shapes may cook differently. Check the package for the best cooking time. To make this dish dairy-free, swap the heavy cream for a plant-based cream. You can use coconut cream or almond milk. For cheese, try nutritional yeast as a great substitute. It adds a nice cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can serve this pasta with a fresh green salad. A crisp Caesar salad pairs nicely too. Garlic bread is another tasty option. If you want protein, grilled chicken or shrimp complements this dish well. Enjoy experimenting with sides! We explored the key parts of making One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta. I detailed important ingredients and measurements. You learned how to prep, cook, and mix everything for a creamy dish. We also talked about tips for the best texture and common mistakes. Don't forget to try fun variations like adding different proteins or vegetables. Finally, I shared how to store and reheat your pasta. With this knowledge, you can make a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. Enjoy cooking!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, gather these items:

– 12 ounces of penne pasta

– 4 cups vegetable broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

– 6 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing)

Measurement Details

Each ingredient plays a key role in this dish. The penne pasta cooks well and holds the sauce nicely. The vegetable broth adds depth of flavor, while heavy cream makes it rich and smooth. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese brings a savory taste. Minced garlic and chopped onion add aroma and warmth. Olive oil helps with cooking, and red pepper flakes give a little kick. Season with salt and pepper to fit your taste.

Optional Ingredients for Customization

You can personalize your pasta with these options:

– Add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein.

– Toss in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra veggies.

– Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese.

– Use herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor.

Feel free to get creative with your One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need 12 ounces of penne pasta, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Also, grab 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 6 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 medium chopped onion. You will want 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you like spice), and salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, keep some fresh parsley handy for garnishing.

Cooking the pasta

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns clear. Next, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir for one more minute until the garlic smells great. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Then, add your penne pasta and stir well. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the pasta cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring from time to time. The pasta should be al dente when done, and most of the liquid will be absorbed.

Adding the cream and cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat again. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 2-3 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it sit for one minute before serving. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the creamy texture

To get the best creamy texture, use heavy cream. This gives a rich feel. Stir the cream in slowly after cooking the pasta. This helps it blend better. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It melts smoother than pre-grated cheese. Mix it in while the pot is still warm.

Common mistakes to avoid

One big mistake is cooking the pasta too long. It should be al dente, not mushy. Keep an eye on the pot and stir often. Another mistake is adding cheese too fast. Add it gradually for even melting. Lastly, don’t skip tasting! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Best tools to use for cooking

A large pot works best for this recipe. It gives enough space for the pasta and sauce. A wooden spoon is great for stirring. It won’t scratch your pot and helps mix well. A measuring cup is key for the broth and cream. A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic easy.

Variations

Adding protein (chicken, shrimp, etc.)

You can easily add protein to this dish. Chicken and shrimp are great choices. If you use chicken, cook diced pieces in the pot first. Season them with salt and pepper before adding onions. For shrimp, add them after the pasta is almost done. Cook until they turn pink. This adds flavor and makes the dish heartier.

Vegetable additions for more flavor

Adding vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. Spinach, peas, or broccoli work well. Simply stir in spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. For peas or broccoli, add them when you add the pasta. This way, they cook just right. You can also use bell peppers or mushrooms for more taste.

Alternative cheese options

If you want to switch up the cheese, go for it! Gouda or mozzarella can add a different twist. Use a mix of cheeses for more depth. Just remember to aim for a creamy texture. If you try a strong cheese, cut back on the salt. This keeps the dish balanced and tasty.

Storage Info

How to store leftovers

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it.

Reheating instructions

When you are ready to eat, grab a pot. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Heat over medium-low heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. This helps to warm it evenly. You can also use the microwave. Place your pasta in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for one to two minutes, checking often.

Freezing tips for longer storage

You can freeze One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta if you want to save it longer. Use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top, as the pasta expands when frozen. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then reheat as described above for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can. You can use any pasta shape you like. Bowtie, farfalle, or even spaghetti work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time. Different pasta shapes may cook differently. Check the package for the best cooking time.

How do I make it dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, swap the heavy cream for a plant-based cream. You can use coconut cream or almond milk. For cheese, try nutritional yeast as a great substitute. It adds a nice cheesy flavor without the dairy.

What can I serve with One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

You can serve this pasta with a fresh green salad. A crisp Caesar salad pairs nicely too. Garlic bread is another tasty option. If you want protein, grilled chicken or shrimp complements this dish well. Enjoy experimenting with sides!

We explored the key parts of making One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta. I detailed important ingredients and measurements. You learned how to prep, cook, and mix everything for a creamy dish. We also talked about tips for the best texture and common mistakes. Don’t forget to try fun variations like adding different proteins or vegetables. Finally, I shared how to store and reheat your pasta. With this knowledge, you can make a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. Enjoy cooking!

To make One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, gather these items: - 12 ounces of penne pasta - 4 cups vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 6 cloves garlic, minced - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing) Each ingredient plays a key role in this dish. The penne pasta cooks well and holds the sauce nicely. The vegetable broth adds depth of flavor, while heavy cream makes it rich and smooth. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese brings a savory taste. Minced garlic and chopped onion add aroma and warmth. Olive oil helps with cooking, and red pepper flakes give a little kick. Season with salt and pepper to fit your taste. You can personalize your pasta with these options: - Add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. - Toss in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra veggies. - Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese. - Use herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor. Feel free to get creative with your One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta! Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need 12 ounces of penne pasta, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Also, grab 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 6 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 medium chopped onion. You will want 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you like spice), and salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, keep some fresh parsley handy for garnishing. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns clear. Next, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir for one more minute until the garlic smells great. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Then, add your penne pasta and stir well. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the pasta cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring from time to time. The pasta should be al dente when done, and most of the liquid will be absorbed. Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat again. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 2-3 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it sit for one minute before serving. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch! To get the best creamy texture, use heavy cream. This gives a rich feel. Stir the cream in slowly after cooking the pasta. This helps it blend better. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It melts smoother than pre-grated cheese. Mix it in while the pot is still warm. One big mistake is cooking the pasta too long. It should be al dente, not mushy. Keep an eye on the pot and stir often. Another mistake is adding cheese too fast. Add it gradually for even melting. Lastly, don’t skip tasting! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A large pot works best for this recipe. It gives enough space for the pasta and sauce. A wooden spoon is great for stirring. It won't scratch your pot and helps mix well. A measuring cup is key for the broth and cream. A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic easy. {{image_2}} You can easily add protein to this dish. Chicken and shrimp are great choices. If you use chicken, cook diced pieces in the pot first. Season them with salt and pepper before adding onions. For shrimp, add them after the pasta is almost done. Cook until they turn pink. This adds flavor and makes the dish heartier. Adding vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. Spinach, peas, or broccoli work well. Simply stir in spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. For peas or broccoli, add them when you add the pasta. This way, they cook just right. You can also use bell peppers or mushrooms for more taste. If you want to switch up the cheese, go for it! Gouda or mozzarella can add a different twist. Use a mix of cheeses for more depth. Just remember to aim for a creamy texture. If you try a strong cheese, cut back on the salt. This keeps the dish balanced and tasty. To store leftovers, let the pasta cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it. When you are ready to eat, grab a pot. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Heat over medium-low heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. This helps to warm it evenly. You can also use the microwave. Place your pasta in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for one to two minutes, checking often. You can freeze One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta if you want to save it longer. Use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top, as the pasta expands when frozen. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then reheat as described above for the best taste. Yes, you can. You can use any pasta shape you like. Bowtie, farfalle, or even spaghetti work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time. Different pasta shapes may cook differently. Check the package for the best cooking time. To make this dish dairy-free, swap the heavy cream for a plant-based cream. You can use coconut cream or almond milk. For cheese, try nutritional yeast as a great substitute. It adds a nice cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can serve this pasta with a fresh green salad. A crisp Caesar salad pairs nicely too. Garlic bread is another tasty option. If you want protein, grilled chicken or shrimp complements this dish well. Enjoy experimenting with sides! We explored the key parts of making One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta. I detailed important ingredients and measurements. You learned how to prep, cook, and mix everything for a creamy dish. We also talked about tips for the best texture and common mistakes. Don't forget to try fun variations like adding different proteins or vegetables. Finally, I shared how to store and reheat your pasta. With this knowledge, you can make a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. Enjoy cooking!

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Discover the creamy delight of One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta! This simple recipe combines penne pasta with rich flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, all made in one pot for easy cleanup. With just a few ingredients and quick steps, you'll create a comforting meal that's perfect for any night. Click through to explore this delicious recipe and start cooking up a hearty dish that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces of penne pasta

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing)

Instructions
 

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.

    Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for another minute until fragrant.

      Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Then add the penne pasta and stir to combine.

        Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover. Let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

          Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.

            Season with salt and pepper to taste and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.

              Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 20 mins | 4 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the creamy garlic parmesan pasta in deep bowls and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a pop of color. Add a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch!

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