Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe

Oh, you’re going to love this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe — it’s honestly one of my favorite quick dinners when I want something comforting but fuss-free. What makes it so special is how everything cooks in one pot, so clean-up is a breeze and the flavors get to marry beautifully without losing any of that garlicky, buttery goodness. Plus, the blend of herbs and that little hint of lemon juice? Absolute magic.

I usually whip this up on busy weeknights, but honestly, it’s fancy enough for guests when you’re short on time. It feels indulgent without being heavy, and I love how versatile it is — you can easily add chicken or veggies if you want, but just as it is, it’s pure comfort food perfection. If you haven’t tried this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe yet, grab your pot and let me walk you through making the creamiest, tastiest dinner in no time.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Let’s talk about the ingredients — every one of them plays a key role in making this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe shine. I always suggest using fresh, high-quality versions when you can. It really takes the dish from good to unforgettable.

• Dried Basil, Oregano, Parsley, Mustard Powder: These herbs and spices create a warm, aromatic base that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Dried Thyme, Onion Powder, Pepper: Subtle notes that add depth without overwhelming the garlic and butter.
• Butter: The heart of the dish — creamy, rich, and full of flavor. Dividing it between cooking and finishing helps create a luscious sauce.
• Fresh Garlic: Trust me, fresh garlic is non-negotiable here — it gives that unmistakable punch of flavor that jarred garlic just can’t match.
• Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth and a bit of saltiness, which layers beautifully with the Parmesan cheese.
• Half and Half: Enough creaminess without weighing down the pasta.
• Soy Sauce: A sneaky but brilliant flavor enhancer that deepens umami without tasting “soy saucey.”
• Chicken Bouillon Cube: Boosts the savory profile, making the broth richer and more satisfying.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce for that nutty, savory finish.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, fresh contrast that cuts through the richness and wakes up the whole dish.
• Shellbow Pasta: I adore this pasta shape because it holds sauce so well — a perfect texture and mouthfeel for this recipe.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love how this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe feels like a blank canvas for anyone who wants to get creative. Sometimes I add sautéed mushrooms or spinach just to sneak in some greens, and other times, a pinch of crushed red pepper for a little fire. It’s super easy to customize, and I encourage you to make it your own.

• Variation: Adding cooked shredded chicken turns this into a protein-packed meal — perfect for those nights I need something a bit heartier.
• Vegan Version: Swap butter for vegan margarine and use a plant-based cream and cheese alternative; just keep an eye on seasoning adjustments.
• Vegetables: Toss in peas, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice Medal: Try a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne if you want to shake things up.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe

Step 1: Gather and Measure Everything First

This recipe moves fast, so I always recommend measuring out all your ingredients and mixing the seasonings in a small bowl before you heat up your pot. Nothing worse than scrambling to find something when your butter is already sizzling! Having everything ready lets you focus on stirring and timing perfectly.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Seasonings in Butter

Add 3 tablespoons of butter to a medium pot over medium heat, then toss in the minced garlic and your pre-mixed seasoning blend. Stir continuously — the butter will start to foam, and your kitchen will fill with that mouthwatering aroma. Just be careful not to let the garlic brown or burn, as it will turn bitter fast.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth, Cream, and Flavor Boosters

Once the garlic is fragrant, add the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and that half bouillon cube. Bring the mixture to a boil. This liquid base is what cooks your pasta so perfectly without sticking or drying out.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta in the Liquid

Throw in the Shellbow pasta once the liquid boils. Bring it back up to a gentle boil and keep it uncovered. A little trick I’ve found helpful: use a silicone spatula to stir and scrape the bottom every few minutes so the pasta doesn’t stick. Taste a piece shortly before the recommended cook time ends — you want it al dente, with a slight bite.

Step 5: Finish With Cheese, Lemon, and Butter

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in your freshly grated Parmesan — this melts into the sauce and thickens it up. Then remove from heat and add fresh lemon juice for a bright pop. Lastly, stir in your remaining tablespoon of butter, cover the pot, and let it melt fully before giving it one last gentle stir.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of topping this pasta with a little fresh parsley or basil for color and a fresh note. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a grind of black pepper to finish it off — it makes it look and taste restaurant-worthy without any extra effort.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or roasted veggies. When I want to go all out, I love serving it alongside my Garlic Bread With Cheese or a crispy Chicken Milanese — the combo makes for a truly satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For date night or a small dinner party, I like to dish this pasta into shallow bowls, then top with a little herb sprig and lemon zest for a fresh look. Serving it family-style in a rustic ceramic pot also works — it invites everyone to dig in and makes the meal feel cozy and intimate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftovers, I store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It thickens up quite a bit, so before reheating, I sprinkle a bit of water or broth to loosen it back up for a creamy texture.

Freezing

This Garlic Butter Pasta freezes well for up to 3 months. I portion it into freezer-safe containers and make sure to leave a little space for expansion. Just know the texture will be a little different when thawed but the flavor remains fantastic.

Reheating

My favorite way to reheat it is on the stove in a warmed pot with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, stirring gently until heated through. This helps preserve the creamy consistency better than microwaving.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe holds a little special place in my heart because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying, plus it never fails to impress anyone I serve it to. I really hope you enjoy making it as much as I do — you’ll find it quickly becomes one of your go-to comfort meals, just like it is for me!

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