One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Simple and Delicious Meal

November 18, 2025November 9, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti

– 4 cups vegetable broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

Flavor Enhancers

– 5 cloves minced garlic

– 1 medium finely chopped onion

– 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

– 1 cup chopped fresh spinach

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Oils

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

For this dish, I focus on key ingredients that give great flavor. The pasta serves as the base, soaking up all the tasty broth. I use vegetable broth for a rich taste. The heavy cream adds a smooth texture, making it creamy.

The garlic and onion provide a strong flavor. I always use fresh garlic. It has a bright taste that brings the dish to life. Chopped cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst. Spinach not only tastes good but also adds color and nutrition.

Parmesan cheese is a must. It melts well and adds a salty kick. I use olive oil to sauté the garlic and onion, enhancing their flavors. The dried Italian herbs unite everything, giving it a classic taste.

Salt and pepper finish the dish. Remember, season to your liking! Fresh basil can top it off for a nice touch. This combination makes One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta simple yet full of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

1. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 medium onion, finely chopped. Sauté it for about 3 minutes. You want the onion to turn translucent.

3. Next, add 5 cloves of minced garlic. Cook it for 1 more minute. The garlic should smell great, but be careful not to burn it.

Cook the Pasta

1. Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth. Turn up the heat to bring it to a gentle boil.

2. Once boiling, add 12 oz of fettuccine or spaghetti. Make sure the pasta is fully covered by the broth.

3. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir it often. You want the pasta to be al dente.

Create the Creamy Sauce

1. Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Mix it well until the spinach wilts.

2. Remove the pot from heat and fold in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and coats the pasta.

3. Taste your dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or more cream to loosen it up.

Tips & Tricks

Perfect Pasta Cooking

To achieve al dente pasta, follow these simple steps:

– Use plenty of water in the pot. This helps pasta cook evenly.

– Stir the pasta often while it cooks. This prevents it from sticking together.

– Taste the pasta a minute or two before the package time ends. It should be firm but not hard.

Stirring techniques matter. Use a long spoon to gently move the pasta. This way, every strand cooks evenly and absorbs flavor.

Flavor Boosters

Want to enhance the taste? Here are some great ideas:

– Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary add brightness.

– A pinch of red pepper flakes can give a nice kick.

– For a smoky flavor, try adding a bit of smoked paprika.

When it comes to broth, homemade is best. It has more depth and flavor. Store-bought broth works too, but check for added sodium. You can dilute it with water if it’s too salty.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here’s how to fix common problems:

– If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream. Stir well to mix it in.

– If garlic burns, it can ruin the dish. If this happens, remove the burnt pieces. You can add fresh minced garlic to replace the flavor.

These tips will help you create a creamy garlic pasta that shines every time. Enjoy the cooking process!

Variations

Protein Additions

You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Simply cook the meat separately and stir it into the pasta at the end. This adds flavor and makes the dish heartier. If you prefer vegetarian options, try adding chickpeas or beans. They are great for boosting protein while keeping it meat-free.

Vegetable Swaps

Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, or peas work well. They add color and nutrients to your meal. For a twist, you can swap spinach and tomatoes for kale or mushrooms. Each choice brings a new taste and texture to the dish.

Dietary Adjustments

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. There are many good options available now. If you need a dairy-free version, choose coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream. You can also skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. These swaps let everyone enjoy this creamy pasta.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store your One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the pasta fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to keep it creamy. Stir gently to warm it through. If you find the pasta too thick, adding a little liquid helps revive it.

Freezing Options

Yes, you can freeze One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta! To do this, let it cool completely. Store it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It can last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat slowly, adding some broth to regain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe in advance. To prep ahead, cook the pasta and sauce, then store them separately. This keeps the pasta from soaking up too much sauce. When ready to eat, just reheat the sauce and mix in the pasta.

For reheating, use a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy. Stir often to warm it evenly. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. It will still give a nice creaminess. For a non-dairy choice, try coconut milk or cashew cream. Both options work well in this recipe.

You can also use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just mix it in after cooking to prevent curdling. Each substitute changes the flavor slightly, so choose what suits you best.

How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?

To make more servings, simply scale up the ingredients. For each extra serving, add about 3 oz more pasta and half a cup of broth. Keep the cream and cheese amounts similar for balance.

When cooking, ensure the pot is big enough to handle the extra pasta and sauce. Stir well while cooking to make sure everything cooks evenly. Adjust seasoning to taste as you go along.

This blog post covered a simple and tasty creamy garlic pasta recipe. We explored the key ingredients, from pasta and broth to garlic and spinach. I provided step-by-step instructions to create a rich sauce while ensuring your pasta stays perfectly cooked. We also discussed variations, storage tips, and common questions.

Cooking can be fun and easy. With these tips, you can enjoy flavorful meals at home. Get creative and make this dish your ow