Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that brings together rich, savory flavors with minimal effort. The one-pot nature makes cleanup a breeze, and the blend of fresh garlic, herbs, Parmesan cheese, and a splash of lemon juice creates a deliciously creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta. Perfect as a meatless main or a flavorful side dish, this recipe will soon become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• ¾ teaspoon dried basil

• ¾ teaspoon dried oregano

• ¾ teaspoon dried parsley

• ¾ teaspoon mustard powder

• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme

• ¼ teaspoon onion powder

• ¼ teaspoon pepper

• 4 tablespoons butter, divided

• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• 2 ¾ cups chicken broth

• ¾ cup half and half

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

• ½ chicken bouillon cube

• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• ½ lb. Shellbow pasta (or similar)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Combine the dried seasonings and set them aside. Measure out the remaining ingredients to prepare for cooking, as this recipe moves quickly.

2. In a large soup pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and seasoning mixture. Stir continuously until the butter starts to foam.

3. Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and crumble in the chicken bouillon cube. Stir to combine.

4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Continue to cook the pasta uncovered, following the package instructions. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Taste-test the pasta to ensure it’s cooked to your preference.

5. Once the pasta is tender, reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.

6. Remove the pot from the heat, then add the fresh lemon juice and stir. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and cover the pot for a few minutes to let it melt. Stir gently to incorporate the butter into the pasta.

7. Serve and enjoy your creamy, garlic butter pasta!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 people

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Keep it meatless as the recipe suggests, or add some sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Meat Option: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon bits for a protein-packed variation.

• Cheese: Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a different twist on flavor.

• Pasta Variety: While this recipe uses Shellbow pasta, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like Cavatappi, Farfalle, or Rotini.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for an extra layer of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or half-and-half to bring back the creamy texture. You can also microwave individual portions with a small amount of liquid to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute Shellbow pasta with Cavatappi, Medium Shells, Orecchiette, Farfalle, or Rotini. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape and size.

2. Can I make this recipe without chicken broth?

If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.

3. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

For the best flavor and creaminess, it’s recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly and can affect the texture of the sauce.

4. Is there a non-dairy version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the half-and-half with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or almond milk, and use dairy-free butter and Parmesan to make it dairy-free.

5. Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon bits are great additions that complement the creamy garlic sauce.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust to your desired level of spice.

7. Can I freeze the leftovers?

While this dish can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon reheating due to the creamy sauce. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you do freeze it, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

8. Can I substitute the half-and-half with heavy cream?

Yes, heavy cream can be used instead of half-and-half for an even richer sauce. Keep in mind it may thicken the sauce more, so you might need to adjust the liquid.

9. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just be sure to use a larger pot and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Pasta is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a tasty side. The combination of fresh garlic, creamy Parmesan, and zesty lemon makes each bite comforting and satisfying. Plus, with its one-pot convenience, it’s as easy to clean up as it is to prepare. Whether you keep it vegetarian or add your favorite protein, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy!

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