introduction
This is a very quick and easy dinner you can make in about 15 minutes. It uses simple ingredients and one pan. If you like one-pan meals, also check one-pot easy dinner ideas for more simple meals.
why make this recipe
You will make this recipe because it is fast, uses little clean up, and tastes good. It works on busy nights. It is cheap and uses pantry items you likely have.
how to make One-Pan Garlic Butter Pasta
This is a simple and clear plan to cook the pasta and sauce in one pan. For more quick weeknight ideas that do not need a slow cooker, see easy weeknight meal ideas.
Ingredients :
- 8 oz (about 225 g) spaghetti or any pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley, red pepper flakes
Directions :
- Break pasta in half if needed to fit the pan.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add pasta, broth, and milk to the pan. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook 8–10 minutes, stirring now and then, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper.
- Turn off heat and let sit 1 minute to thicken. Add parsley or red pepper flakes if you like.
how to serve One-Pan Garlic Butter Pasta
Serve hot in bowls. Top with extra Parmesan and a small drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter. Add a green salad or steamed veggies to make a full meal.
how to store One-Pan Garlic Butter Pasta
Cool to room temp, then place in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
tips to make One-Pan Garlic Butter Pasta
- Use fresh garlic for better flavor.
- Stir often to stop pasta from sticking.
- If the sauce is too thick after cooling, add a little hot water when reheating.
- For more casserole-style dinner ideas, look at simple chicken casserole recipes for inspiration.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or canned tuna for protein.
- Swap cream for a splash of white wine for a different taste.
- Toss in spinach or peas at the end for extra greens.
FAQs
Q: Can I use whole wheat pasta?
A: Yes. Cook time may be a minute or two longer. Watch the pasta to reach the right texture.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use plant milk and a dairy-free butter, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but use a larger pan and a bit more liquid. Stir more often to keep pasta from clumping.
Q: What if my pasta is not cooked but sauce is gone?
A: Add 1/4 cup hot water at a time and cook a few more minutes until pasta is done.
Q: Can I use jarred garlic or garlic powder?
A: You can, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If using powder, use much less.
Conclusion
If you need even more ideas for nights when you are too tired to cook, this list can help: 26 dinners for when you’re too tired to cook.
One-Pan Garlic Butter Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Break pasta in half if needed to fit the pan.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add pasta, broth, and milk to the pan. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in Parmesan and season with salt and pepper.
- Turn off heat and let sit for 1 minute to thicken. Add parsley or red pepper flakes if desired.