Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something comforting, healthy, and utterly delicious – but dreading the mountain of dishes. That’s where One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta comes in. It’s quick, bursting with fresh flavor, and keeps cleanup to a minimum. Truly a weeknight superhero!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Growing up, my Nonna always had a way of making the simplest ingredients taste like a feast. This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta reminds me of her magic. It’s a tribute to her effortless cooking style – uncomplicated, filled with love, and always satisfying. It’s my go-to when I need a hug in a bowl, and I hope it becomes yours too.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, fusilli, or your favorite short shape)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream alternative
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit or use nutritional yeast to make it vegan)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Combine Pasta & Broth: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the pasta and vegetable broth.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Cook & Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in Cream & Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream (or alternative) and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix until well combined and creamy.
- Season & Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
A quick and comforting one-pot pasta recipe with creamy garlic flavor and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine Pasta & Broth: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the pasta and vegetable broth.1 pound pasta, 4 cups vegetable broth
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).1 tablespoon olive oil, 6 garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Cook & Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in Cream & Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream (or alternative) and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix until well combined and creamy.0.5 cup heavy cream, 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Season & Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste.salt, black pepper
- Garnish & Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.fresh parsley