Description
A weeknight lifesaver: rich, garlicky, saucy pasta cooked in one pan, delivering maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) dried spaghetti or linguine
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter + 1 tablespoon olive oil (or 4 tbsp butter for richer)
- 6–8 medium garlic cloves, finely minced (about 3–4 tablespoons)
- 1 small onion (optional), finely diced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk (or 1/2 cup cream + 1/2 cup milk)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving (about 3 oz)
- Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prep ingredients: measure liquids, grate the Parmesan, mince the garlic, and have the butter at room temperature.
- Heat the pan: Over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet.
- Sweat aromatics: Add the diced onion and a pinch of salt, cooking until translucent. Then, add minced garlic and cook gently until fragrant.
- Add pasta: Lay the dry pasta into the pan and pour the stock and milk mixture over it.
- Bring to a simmer: Increase heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently for the first 8–10 minutes.
- Stir and check doneness: After 8–10 minutes, begin testing the pasta for al dente.
- Finish the sauce: Once the pasta is al dente, remove from heat and stir in softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add Parmesan.
- Brighten and season: Stir in lemon zest and juice, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the pasta fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
Freshly grated cheese is recommended for the best texture. Adjust ingredients based on personal dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: pasta, garlic, creamy, one pot, quick dinner, Italian recipe