This Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) is pure weeknight magic—a luscious, creamy swirl of al dente pasta enveloped in fragrant garlic, swirls of herbs, and a savory Parmesan kick that only gets better with each forkful. If you’re always torn between making something extravagant and something easy, this dish lets you have both. Every bite is coated in creamy, buttery goodness with an irresistible punch of garlic and a citrusy-salty finish that keeps you going back for more. Best of all, it’s all done in a single pot, so cleanup is a breeze. One taste and you’ll wonder how such minimal effort could deliver maximum flavor!

Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Put your ingredient doubts aside—this dish proves that humble pantry staples can work wonders! Each ingredient in this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) has a starring role, seasoning the sauce, enriching the texture, or providing that final pop of flavor and color. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dried basil, oregano, and parsley: These classic herbs form the aromatic backbone, infusing every bite with Mediterranean warmth.
Mustard powder: A tiny boost that quietly deepens the sauce’s complexity without overpowering.
Dried thyme, onion powder, and black pepper: A trio that balances the herbal notes and adds subtle earthy depth.
Butter: Used in two steps for maximum creaminess and to help emulsify the sauce.
Fresh garlic: The true star—freshly minced for bold, aromatic flavor that infuses every noodle.
Chicken broth: Provides a savory base and helps cook the pasta right in the sauce, eliminating the need for draining.
Half and half: Makes the sauce extra silky without being overly heavy.
Soy sauce: Just a touch sneaks in big umami flavor and enhances the overall depth.
Chicken bouillon cube: Intensifies the savory flavor already present in the broth.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts beautifully for that salty-nutty finish you crave.
Fresh lemon juice: Brightens everything and keeps the pasta from being too rich.
Shellbow pasta (or substitute): This curvy shape catches all the sauce, but swaps like rotini or penne work well too.

How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!)

Step 1: Ready Your Ingredients

Before you even heat the stove, get all your ingredients measured and lined up. This Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) moves fast and you don’t want to be scrambling for the Parmesan or hunting for your herbs while the garlic is sizzling. Combine all the dried seasonings in a small bowl, prep the garlic, and measure out the liquids and cheese so you’re set up for smooth cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic with Butter and Seasonings

Add 3 tablespoons of butter to your favorite soup pot and let it melt over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic along with your pre-mixed herbs and spices. Stir continuously—the moment the butter starts to foam, you’ll notice a heavenly aroma filling your kitchen. This is where the flavor foundation for Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) really comes alive, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add Liquids and Bring to a Boil

Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and crumble in the bouillon cube. Give everything a good stir to combine. This combo not only cooks the pasta but also builds the sauce, infusing every bit of pasta with bold, layered flavors as it cooks.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Uncovered

When the mixture reaches a boil, add the shellbow pasta straight to the pot. Return it to a gentle boil and cook uncovered according to the pasta package instructions—usually about 10-12 minutes. Stir often, running a silicone spatula along the bottom to prevent sticking. This one-pot process lets the pasta release a bit of natural starch for a silkier sauce. Taste-test a piece to ensure it’s perfectly al dente before moving to the next step.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan Cheese and Lemon

Turn the heat down to low. Slowly stir in the freshly grated Parmesan, letting it melt into the sauce for a creamy, cohesive finish. Take the pot off the heat and add the fresh lemon juice. This final squeeze of citrus wakes up the entire dish, making every bite pop.

Step 6: Finish with Butter and Serve

Add the last tablespoon of butter, cover the pot for a minute to let it melt, then gently stir it through for extra silkiness. Serve your Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) while it’s piping hot and bask in the glory of minimal dishes!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!)

Garnishes

Shower your bowl with a flurry of freshly chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese for brightness and a salty finish. A few twists of cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes also gives this pasta a little extra zip. If you love citrus, add a thin sliver of lemon on the side for a zesty touch.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) is comforting and rich all on its own, but pairing options are endless! Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess, or add roasted or steamed veggie sides like broccolini or asparagus. A slice of crusty bread makes the perfect companion for cleaning up any extra sauce left in your bowl.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your presentation by twirling the pasta into pretty nests with tongs and topping each portion with a sprig of fresh parsley or a lemon twist. For a fancier touch, serve in shallow pasta bowls with shards of Parmesan on top and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Having guests? Offer optional add-ins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms in small bowls so everyone can personalize their plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with leftovers (though that’s never a guarantee with Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!)), let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring the sauce stays creamy and the pasta doesn’t dry out.

Freezing

While pasta dishes with cream-based sauces can be tricky to freeze, Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) holds up fairly well. Spoon cooled portions into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, squeeze out excess air, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To bring back that luscious, saucy consistency, reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of extra half and half or chicken broth, stirring frequently. For single servings, a microwave works just fine—cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While shellbow pasta is great for scooping up the garlic butter sauce, penne, rotini, or even spaghetti all work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time based on whichever pasta you choose.

What can I substitute for half and half?

If you don’t have half and half on hand, you can use equal parts whole milk and heavy cream. For a lighter version, all whole milk will work, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and velvety.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Definitely! Swap the chicken broth and bouillon cube for vegetable broth and a vegetarian bouillon. The results are just as comforting and flavorful.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Of course! Stir in cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon at the end for a protein boost. Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) is wonderfully versatile and ready for your favorite add-ins.

Do I really have to use freshly grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated is best because it melts seamlessly and adds more depth to the sauce. Pre-shredded or grated from a can won’t quite deliver the same creaminess or flavor punch, but they’ll do in a pinch if that’s what you have.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s as simple as it is stunning, Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) will absolutely win you over. With its creamy texture, bright pops of garlic and lemon, and the sheer ease of having just a single pot to clean, it’s destined to become your new comfort food go-to. Grab your ingredients and treat yourself—you deserve a bowlful of delicious tonight!