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20-Minute One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Kathleen R. Coffey
Creamy, garlicky, and effortlessly satisfying, this one-pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta is ready in just 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Comfort Food, Italian
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet
  • 1 Wooden spoon
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Cheese grater
  • Tongs

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz. angel hair pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 tbsp butter divided
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese finely grated
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Optional seasonings: ¼ tsp each of onion powder, oregano, thyme, parsley, black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Ingredients: Before turning on the stove, gather all ingredients and tools.
    Mince the garlic finely so it releases maximum flavor, and grate the Parmesan cheese, letting it come to room temperature.
    Measuring out your milk, chicken broth, butter, and seasonings ensures a smooth cooking process with no last-minute scrambling.
    Chop fresh parsley for garnish and set everything aside within reach.
  • Melt Butter for Aromatics: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
    Allow it to melt completely until it becomes slightly foamy, releasing a rich, nutty aroma.
    This step forms the flavor base for the sauce, so avoid burning the butter by stirring gently and keeping the heat steady.
  • Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
    Stir continuously to prevent the garlic from browning or becoming bitter.
    This gentle cooking unlocks the garlic’s natural sweetness and infuses the butter with aromatic depth that will carry through the entire pasta dish.
  • Add Liquids and Seasonings: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring gently, followed by the milk.
    Sprinkle in optional seasonings such as onion powder, oregano, thyme, parsley, and black pepper for a layered flavor profile.
    Increase heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated and evenly heated.
  • Cook Pasta: Add the angel hair pasta directly into the simmering liquid.
    If the pasta is too long for your skillet, gently break the strands in half or use tongs to guide them as they soften.
    Let the pasta simmer for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until it is tender but still firm to the bite.
    Angel hair cooks very quickly, so set a timer to avoid overcooking.
  • Incorporate Butter for Creaminess: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
    Stir continuously to coat the noodles, enhancing the richness and smooth texture of the sauce.
    This step ensures that the pasta is luxuriously creamy without being overly heavy.
  • Blend in Parmesan Cheese: Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly.
    Doing this slowly allows the cheese to melt evenly into the sauce, creating a silky, cohesive texture.
    If the skillet is too hot, remove it from heat momentarily to prevent the dairy from separating and the sauce from becoming grainy.
  • Adjust Consistency: Check the sauce consistency and gently stir.
    The sauce should be creamy but slightly loose, as it will thicken while standing and as the noodles absorb more liquid.
    Taste and adjust seasonings, adding a pinch of salt or pepper if needed.
  • Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately alongside garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or your preferred protein such as chicken or shrimp.
    Use tongs to portion the pasta neatly onto plates, ensuring each serving is evenly coated with sauce.
  • Optional Pairing Suggestions: For a complete meal, pair this pasta with Lemon Pepper Chicken, Creamy Garlic Shrimp, or a crisp side salad.
    The dish also reheats well for meal prep, keeping its creamy texture when gently warmed on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Notes

  • Angel hair pasta cooks extremely quickly; set a timer to avoid overcooking.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and creates a creamier sauce than pre-shredded varieties.
  • Adjust milk or broth quantity slightly if you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce.
  • Optional herbs like oregano, thyme, and parsley enhance flavor without adding extra calories.
  • Breaking long pasta strands helps them fit better in your skillet and ensures even cooking.
  • Turn off heat before adding cheese if the sauce is very hot to prevent graininess.
  • Leftover pasta can be gently reheated on low heat with a splash of milk or broth.