Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe
This Garlic Butter Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pot dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, it combines aromatic herbs, garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese to create a deliciously satisfying pasta that requires minimal cleanup.
- Author: Caleb
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-pot cooking, Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Seasonings
- 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
Main Ingredients
- 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
- Prepare seasonings and ingredients: Combine the dried basil, oregano, parsley, mustard powder, thyme, onion powder, and pepper in a small bowl and set aside. Measure out all remaining ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Sauté garlic and seasonings: In a soup pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and prepared seasonings. Stir constantly until the butter begins to foam, releasing the aromas of garlic and herbs.
- Add liquids and bouillon: Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and add the half chicken bouillon cube. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Cook pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the shellbow pasta and return to a gentle boil. Cook uncovered according to the pasta package instructions. Use a silicone spatula to stir and lift pasta from the bottom frequently to prevent sticking. Taste-test the pasta to ensure it’s cooked to your desired tenderness.
- Incorporate Parmesan cheese and lemon juice: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and blended. Remove the pot from heat and mix in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Finish with butter and serve: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pot, cover it, and allow it to melt. Gently stir the melted butter into the pasta, ensuring everything is well coated. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Shellbow pasta is recommended for its shape and ability to hold the sauce well; penne or rigatoni can be used as substitutes.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- Stirring frequently during pasta cooking prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning with extra pepper or lemon juice to taste.
- This recipe is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: garlic butter pasta, one pot pasta, creamy pasta, easy dinner, shellbow pasta, quick pasta recipe, garlic pasta