Dinner

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot Recipe) Recipe

Bymia larkspur March 30, 2026March 30, 2026

Introduction

This creamy garlic Parmesan pasta is a comforting one-pot meal that’s both quick and easy to prepare. Rich, cheesy, and full of garlic flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

A close-up of creamy fettuccine pasta served on a white plate. The pasta strands are coated in a smooth, pale cream sauce with small specks of black pepper visible throughout. Scattered on top are small pieces of fresh green parsley, adding a touch of color contrast. The plate sits on a wooden surface with a soft focus on a red and white striped cloth and some green herbs in the background. The lighting highlights the glossy texture of the sauce on the noodles. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp butter
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
3 cups chicken stock
½ lb linguini pasta
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup half & half
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tsp dried)
1 tsp chopped fresh basil (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a pot, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and stir, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned or burnt.
Step 2: Add the butter and stir just until melted. Then add the salt, pepper, and chicken stock. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Once boiling, add the linguini pasta. Stir well and cook according to the package instructions for al dente texture.
Step 4: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
Step 5: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the half & half and chopped parsley until the sauce is thick and creamy.
Step 6: Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your creamy garlic Parmesan pasta!

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable stock for the chicken stock.
Add cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and texture.
Use different pasta shapes like fettuccine or penne if linguini isn’t available.
Freshly grated Parmesan gives a better melt and flavor than pre-grated cheese.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.

How to Serve

A close-up view of creamy spaghetti pasta piled on a white plate, with smooth, slightly shiny, pale yellow noodles coated evenly in a thick white sauce. Small green parsley leaves are scattered on top, adding a touch of fresh color. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a blurred background featuring a red and white striped cloth and green leafy herbs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta dairy-free?

You can try substituting the butter and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives and use coconut milk or another plant-based milk instead of half & half to make it dairy-free.