Description
This one-pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, cheesy delight made with angel hair pasta, fresh garlic, butter, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and milk. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup. The sauce is silky smooth, and the garlic flavor shines through, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
- 3 Tablespoons butter (divided)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz. angel hair pasta
- Fresh parsley (to garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Parmesan Cheese: Grate the Parmesan cheese finely and set it aside to come to room temperature, which helps it melt smoothly into the sauce.
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, preparing the base for the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth followed by the milk slowly, stirring as you add to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add Pasta: Add the angel hair pasta to the skillet. Use kitchen tongs to gently twist and submerge the noodles into the liquid as they soften.
- Cook Pasta: Let the pasta cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Once almost tender, reduce the heat to low.
- Add Butter: Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to coat the warm pasta evenly, adding richness to the dish.
- Incorporate Cheese: Gradually sprinkle the room temperature Parmesan cheese into the pasta, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and well combined. The sauce will initially be thin but will thicken as it stands.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta for a bright finish and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread topped with cheese.
Notes
- Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly; it’s important to monitor cooking time closely to avoid overcooked, clumpy noodles.
- The sauce thickens upon standing as the pasta absorbs more liquid; serve promptly for best texture.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for optimal melting and flavor.
- Adjust garlic amount to taste for a milder or stronger flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian