This One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a simple and tasty dish! You’ll love how everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
The garlic gives it an amazing flavor, and the cheese makes it creamy and rich. I like to add some veggies for a pop of color—plus, it feels a little fancy! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using rotini for its ability to hold onto the sauce really well. If you don’t have rotini, you can swap it for any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even macaroni. Get creative!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon if you go that route, but fresh is always my favorite!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for that cheesy goodness. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano works nicely. Just note it’s a bit saltier, so adjust your salt accordingly.
Butter: This adds richness to the dish. If you need a dairy-free option, olive oil is a great alternative, and it still gives a nice flavor.
Heavy Cream: I love the creaminess it brings. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta Cooks Perfectly in One Pan?
Cooking pasta in one pan means you need to keep an eye on the liquid during the cooking process. Here’s how to ensure perfect results:
- Right amount of liquid: Use enough water or broth to cover the pasta. This allows it to cook without drying out.
- Stir frequently: This prevents the pasta from sticking together. Give it a stir every few minutes.
- Taste test: Check the pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time to ensure you get the perfect texture—al dente is the way to go!
With these tips, your One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta will be creamy, cheesy, and delicious. Enjoy cooking!
One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Seasonings:
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a large skillet or deep pan, add the rotini pasta, water or chicken broth, butter, and minced garlic. Stir everything together and make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. This will help it cook evenly.
2. Bring to a Boil:
Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Cook the Pasta:
Continue cooking until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir often!
4. Add Cream and Cheese:
When the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Now, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Mix everything well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give it a taste, and if you feel like it needs more flavor, add a little more salt or pepper according to your liking.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pan from heat and top your pasta with freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, garlicky, cheesy pasta made in just one pan!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking time; gluten-free pasta often cooks faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream or cashew cream will work well, offering a rich texture and flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or pop it in the microwave.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Pasta?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor. They bring freshness and color to the dish!
