Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe
This creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a quick and delicious one-pot meal that combines tender angel hair pasta with a flavorful garlic butter sauce, enriched with Parmesan cheese and a touch of creaminess from milk. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s ready in just 20 minutes and garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
- 3 Tablespoons butter (divided)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz. angel hair pasta
- Fresh parsley (to garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Parmesan: Grate the Parmesan cheese finely and set it aside at room temperature. This helps it melt smoothly into the sauce later.
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth followed by the milk gradually while stirring. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the angel hair pasta to the boiling liquid. You may break the noodles in half if needed or use kitchen tongs to twist them as they soften for better fitting. Let the pasta simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust Heat and Add Butter: Reduce heat to low once pasta is nearly tender. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and toss to coat evenly.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and well combined. The sauce will appear thin at first but will thicken as it stands and as pasta absorbs more sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately, ideally alongside garlic bread with cheese for a complete meal.
Notes
- Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly; monitor closely to avoid overcooking and clumping.
- Let the Parmesan cheese come to room temperature before adding for a smoother sauce.
- Breaking the pasta noodles in half helps them fit better into the skillet and cook evenly.
- The sauce will thicken after standing, so serve promptly for best texture.
- Optional: Serve with garlic bread with cheese to complement the dish.
