One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta

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I’ve always believed that a great pasta dish doesn’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated techniques. This One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta is one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want something comforting and flavorful without all the fuss. It’s creamy, aromatic, and loaded with the fresh taste of herbs that blend beautifully with the rich garlic-infused sauce.

The best part? Everything comes together in just one pan. There’s minimal cleanup, which makes this a weeknight hero in my kitchen. The pasta cooks right in the broth and cream, soaking up all the bold flavors and turning silky smooth by the time it hits the plate. I always get excited when I see that first swirl of pasta coated with herbs and bits of garlic.

I’ve made this dish for family dinners, casual lunches, and even late-night comfort meals, and it never disappoints. With just the right balance of texture, seasoning, and ease, it’s become a staple I return to time and time again. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’re going to fall for this dish just like I did.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta

This pasta is all about simplicity and flavor. The garlic adds depth, the herbs bring freshness, and the creamy base ties it all together like a warm hug in a bowl. You only need one pan, which means less stress and more joy in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to adapt, works as a main or side, and is always a crowd-pleaser.

How to Make the One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start with a large, deep skillet or pan. Add a splash of olive oil and a generous knob of butter. Once melted, toss in finely chopped garlic and let it sizzle until fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning it.

Step 2: Add the Liquid Base
Pour in vegetable broth and heavy cream, then stir in your uncooked pasta. I prefer spaghetti or linguine, but you can use what you like. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little kick.

Step 3: Let It Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. As the liquid reduces, the pasta will absorb all that flavor and become tender and luscious.

Step 4: Add Herbs and Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is creamy, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a mix of chopped herbs like parsley, basil, and thyme. Let it rest for a couple of minutes so the sauce thickens just right.

Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve immediately, with extra herbs and cheese on top. A crack of black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil makes it even better.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can make this pasta your own in so many ways. Try adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and texture. If you’re dairy-free, swap the cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth is compliant. Love it spicy? Stir in a spoonful of chili crisp or diced jalapeño. Want it brighter? Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a handful of baby spinach right before serving.

This recipe is forgiving and flexible, which is exactly what a busy home cook needs.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also plays beautifully with sides. I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a tangy arugula salad with shaved parmesan. If you want to stretch the meal, a warm baguette or slices of crusty garlic bread are perfect companions for soaking up the leftover sauce.

For a more complete dinner, serve it with a simple protein like baked chicken breasts, pan-seared salmon, or grilled shrimp. Even a poached egg on top can elevate the dish for brunch or a cozy weekend meal. And of course, a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon completes the experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb more of the sauce as it sits, so when reheating, add a splash of cream, milk, or broth to loosen it up. Use the microwave in 30-second intervals or reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.

I don’t recommend freezing this pasta, as the creamy sauce can separate and the texture of the pasta won’t be the same after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta vegan?

Yes, you can. Use olive oil instead of butter, a plant-based cream like oat or soy, and swap the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.

What kind of pasta works best?

Long pastas like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work well because they absorb the sauce evenly. Short pasta like penne or fusilli can also be used if you prefer more bite.

Can I use dried herbs?

You can, but fresh herbs really elevate the flavor. If using dried, reduce the quantity to about one-third since they are more concentrated.

How do I make it less creamy?

Simply reduce the amount of cream and replace it with more broth. You can also add lemon zest or juice to cut the richness.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. Just go easy on the red pepper flakes and your little ones will likely love the mild, creamy flavors.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved this One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta, you’ll definitely want to try my Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for another comforting one-pan wonder with a tangy twist. Craving something even heartier? The One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is packed with flavor and has just the right touch of spice. Or explore a cozy meat-free dinner with the Classic Caprese Salad as a fresh starter or a light main.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta made your day a little easier and a lot tastier, don’t forget to save it! Pin this recipe on your Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime you need a delicious and quick meal idea. Share it with friends and family on Facebook or Instagram—they’ll thank you for the weeknight dinner inspiration. And if you’ve made it, tag me in your post so I can see your version!

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