15 Minute One Pot Parmesan Garlic Butter Pasta

This one pot Garlic Butter Pasta is creamy, cozy, and packed with rich flavor from garlic, butter, and freshly grated parmesan. Sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones you come back to over and over again.

It’s the perfect quick dinner, easy side dish, or late-night comfort meal that is ready in just 15 minutes!

In college, I lived on buttery noodles with mozzarella or Parmesan cheese. It was quick, easy, and I wasn’t super into spaghetti sauce, so it was my way of enjoying pasta. It’s perfect for anyone who’s single, in college, has a family, or is an empty nester, so I love that it works for everyone! This garlic butter pasta is an elevated version of my dorm room favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need For Garlic Butter Pasta

This recipe uses just a handful of pantry staples, but when they come together, the result is silky, flavorful pasta with incredible depth. Freshly grated parmesan makes all the difference here, so don’t skip that step.

• Fresh Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the best melt and flavor. Blending it into a fine texture helps it cling beautifully to the pasta.
• Olive Oil: Sautés the garlic and help toast the pasta slightly for added depth.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gives the dish its signature savory flavor.
• Ditalini Pasta: Small tube-shaped pasta that cooks directly in the broth and absorbs flavor as it softens. Orzo or macaroni works in a pinch.
• Chicken Broth: Cooks the pasta while infusing it with rich, savory flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Adds silkiness and brings everything together into a smooth sauce.
• Unsalted Butter: Stirred in at the end for richness and a glossy finish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Balance and enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness and color right before serving.
• Aglio Seasoning or Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for a little heat and extra depth.

With just a few simple ingredients, this one pot garlic butter pasta transforms into a creamy, garlicky dish. Measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

How to Make This Pasta Dish

This is a true one-pot pasta recipe, meaning the noodles cook right in the broth. That means less cleanup and more flavor infused into every bite.

1. Blend: Add a chunk of Parmesan to a blender and pulse until finely grated, almost powdery. This helps it melt smoothly into the pasta.
2. Sauté: In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil and garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Toast: Stir in the dry ditalini pasta and cook gently until it begins to lightly brown. Reduce the heat if needed to prevent burning.
4. Boil: Pour in the chicken broth and add a small pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and cover with a lid. Cook covered for 9 to 10 minutes, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is al dente.
5. Stir: Remove the lid and stir well to release any pasta from the bottom of the pot. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring as it simmers for 30 to 60 seconds.
6. Finish: Remove from heat and stir in the butter, adding it gradually until melted and glossy. Then mix in the parmesan until smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, extra parmesan, and aglio seasoning or red pepper flakes if desired.

In just a few easy steps, you’ll have a rich, creamy pasta that tastes like it took far more effort than it actually did.

What to Eat With Garlic Butter Pasta

This pasta works beautifully as a main dish with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables on the side. It’s also delicious served alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, or garlic shrimp for a more complete meal. Add crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce, and dinner is done.

It has a ton of flavor and is way beyond plain spaghetti… It’s sooo rich and savory. For an extra pop of color and freshness, toss in sweet cherry tomatoes and a handful of fresh basil right at the end. It’s simple, satisfying, and anything but boring.

Storing and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy.

This Garlic Butter Pasta is sooo good! I can’t wait for you to try it. With just one pot and a handful of ingredients, you get a bowl of pure comfort that tastes far more impressive than the time it takes to make it.

Other Pasta Recipes You Will Love

• Caprese Orzo Pasta
• Spring Pasta Primavera Recipe [+Video]
• Antipasto Pasta Salad
• Cream of Mushroom Pasta
• Creamy Chicken Artichoke Pasta

Watch How To Make This Recipe