If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and effortlessly elegant, you’re in for a real treat with this Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!): 20-Minute Creamy Angel Hair Recipe. Imagine silky angel hair pasta perfectly cooked in a luscious garlic-infused sauce, enriched with creamy Parmesan and butter—all prepared in a single pot to save you time and mess. It’s a divine combination of flavors and textures that’ll have you swooning with every bite, perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the aromatic garlic that flavors every strand to the creamy Parmesan that creates the sauce’s silky texture, every element is key to making this dish a standout.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated): Adds rich, nutty flavor and melts beautifully to create a creamy sauce.
- 3 Tablespoons butter (divided): Used for sautéing garlic and enriching the sauce with a velvety finish.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced): Provides aromatic depth and that classic savory punch.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Forms the flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the pasta with savory goodness.
- 1 cup milk: Makes the sauce creamy and smooth without overpowering the garlic and cheese.
- 8 oz. angel hair pasta: Cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious sauce in just minutes.
- Fresh parsley (to garnish): Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh, herbal note.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!): 20-Minute Creamy Angel Hair Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Cheese and Garlic
Start by finely grating your Parmesan cheese and letting it come to room temperature—this helps it melt seamlessly into the sauce later. Then, mince your garlic cloves finely to release that wonderful garlicky aroma that will fill your kitchen.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Cook it gently for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden. This step builds the beautiful base flavor of the entire dish.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and slowly add 1 cup of milk, stirring steadily. Bring the mixture to a boil—it’s this flavorful liquid that cooks your pasta and forms the creamy sauce foundation. Watching the transformation is almost as satisfying as tasting the final dish!
Step 4: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta
Add the angel hair pasta directly to your skillet, breaking the strands in half if you want them to fit more neatly. As the pasta softens, gently use tongs to twist and submerge the strands. Let them simmer uncovered for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often to keep the noodles from sticking and to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Finish with Butter and Parmesan
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, tossing the pasta to coat every strand in buttery goodness. Then sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Don’t worry if it looks thin at first—the sauce thickens as the pasta soaks it up, making each bite irresistibly luscious.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!): 20-Minute Creamy Angel Hair Recipe
Garnishes
Some fresh chopped parsley scattered on top not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of herbaceous brightness that balances the richness. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan for good measure—it never hurts!
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread with cheese to keep the carb-lover in you happy. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also add great texture contrast and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!): 20-Minute Creamy Angel Hair Recipe in pretty individual bowls topped with a lemon zest sprinkle or toasted pine nuts for crunch. It’s a great way to elevate weeknight dinner into something special and share-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!): 20-Minute Creamy Angel Hair Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, though the pasta will continue to soak up sauce, so it might thicken a bit.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh to maintain its creamy texture, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently as it warms to restore that silky consistency without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While angel hair is ideal for its quick cooking and light texture, you could use spaghetti or thin linguine; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Thicker pasta may require more liquid and longer cooking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
Definitely. Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as creamy and flavorful.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits make fantastic additions. Just prepare your protein separately and toss it in toward the end for a heartier meal.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Try swapping out the butter for olive oil and using a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk along with a vegan Parmesan alternative. Keep in mind the flavor will be different but still tasty.
Why is my pasta sticking together?
Angel hair pasta is delicate, so it’s important to stir frequently during cooking and use enough liquid. Breaking the noodles before cooking and twisting them with tongs as they soften also helps prevent clumping.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!): 20-Minute Creamy Angel Hair Recipe is a total game changer. It’s quick, decadent, and requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for all kinds of occasions. Whether you’re whipping it up solo or sharing with loved ones, this creamy, garlicky dish is bound to become a beloved favorite on your dinner rotation.
PrintGarlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!): 20-Minute Creamy Angel Hair Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. Combining angel hair pasta with a rich garlic-infused parmesan sauce, simmered in chicken broth and milk, it’s both easy to prepare and delightfully comforting. Garnished with fresh parsley and served best alongside garlic bread with cheese, this pasta recipe promises a luscious, cheesy experience in just 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Cheese and Butter
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
Aromatics
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
Pasta
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, to garnish
Instructions
- Prep Parmesan: Grate the Parmesan cheese finely and set it aside to come to room temperature, which helps it melt smoothly into the sauce later.
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter to prepare the base for the garlic flavor.
- Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to release its aroma without burning.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth, then slowly add the milk while stirring continuously. Bring this mixture to a boil to combine all flavors.
- Add Pasta: Add the angel hair pasta to the skillet. You may break the noodles in half for better fit or wait for them to soften and use tongs to submerge them fully into the liquid.
- Simmer Pasta: Let the pasta simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low for the next step.
- Add Butter: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pasta and toss well to coat each strand in the buttery sauce.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Gradually sprinkle in the room temperature Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Though initially thin, the sauce will thicken as it stands.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately, ideally accompanied by garlic bread with cheese for a complete meal.
Notes
- Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly, so be sure to watch the time carefully to avoid overcooking, which can make the noodles clumpy.
- Breaking the pasta in half helps it fit better in the skillet and cook evenly.
- The sauce will be thin initially but will thicken upon standing as the pasta absorbs more liquid.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key for melting and flavor; pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
