Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Are you looking for a quick and delicious family dinner? This Easy Dinner Recipes for Family: One Pan Creamy Garlic Pasta in 20 Minutes is the answer! In just 20 minutes, you can serve a creamy and flavorful dish that everyone will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to prepare something that pleases both adults and children alike. Plus, it’s made all in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
What Is Easy Dinner Recipes for Family: One Pan Creamy Garlic Pasta in 20 Minutes?
This recipe is a delightful combination of pasta, garlic, and creamy goodness, all cooked in one pan. The beauty lies not only in its taste but also in the simplicity of preparation. Using just a few staple ingredients, it delivers a comforting dish that feels indulgent but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Ideal for families and beginners, this recipe highlights how easy it is to create a satisfying meal without complicated techniques or fancy tools.
Why You’ll Love This
You’ll love this dish because of its delightful combination of flavors. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic, clings beautifully to the pasta, making every bite heavenly. The one-pan approach not only makes cooking simple but also minimizes cleanup time—perfect for busy parents! Plus, this dish can be tailored according to your tastes, whether you like it spicy, herby, or loaded with veggies. It’s a versatile recipe that embraces the art of cooking while focusing on convenience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 oz of pasta: Use any type you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine. It forms the base of the dish.
- 4 cloves of garlic: Freshly minced for maximum flavor and aroma. Garlic adds a wonderful depth to the dish.
- 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth: This liquid not only cooks the pasta but infuses it with flavor.
- 1 cup of heavy cream: For creaminess and richness, making the sauce smooth.
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese: This cheese enhances the creamy texture and adds a savory touch.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil: Used for cooking the garlic, it adds a layer of flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning your dish. Adjust according to preference.
How to Make
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Be cautious not to brown the garlic to avoid a bitter taste.
- Next, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Allow it to come to a simmer before adding in the pasta. Stir the pasta to ensure it is evenly coated with the broth, and let it cook uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- When the pasta is nearly done, reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well to combine. This will create that luscious creamy sauce that will coat the pasta perfectly. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Once the sauce thickens slightly, add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s melted and well incorporated. Taste and season with salt and pepper as necessary for additional flavor.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the pasta sit for a moment to thicken. This allows the sauce to cling beautifully to the pasta for a richer experience.
- Finally, serve immediately while hot. You can top it with additional cheese or fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
Variations & Substitutions
Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat in the dish. You can add extra vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance both the nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Creamy Garlic Pasta: For a kick of heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or fresh diced chili peppers into the garlic during the sautée stage. This twist will add a delightful heat to balance the creaminess of the dish.
Mushroom Creamy Pasta: For a rich umami flavor, sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic. They’ll absorb the broth and cream, enriching the dish with their earthy taste. You can use any variety, such as button or shiitake mushrooms.
Herb-Infused Version: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the cream sauce. It adds freshness and elevates the flavor profile. Just stir them in right before serving for the best aroma and taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Pasta: One common mistake is overcooking the pasta, which can lead to a mushy texture. Make sure to keep an eye on it, especially since it will continue cooking in the sauce even after being removed from heat.
Not Tasting as You Go: Failing to taste the dish as it cooks can result in an unbalanced flavor. Always taste and adjust the salt and pepper right before serving.
Adding Cream Too Soon: Don’t add the cream too early in the cooking process! It should be added once the pasta is almost fully cooked to achieve the best texture and flavor integration.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers. It’ll last for up to 2 months. When reheating, avoid the microwave as it may dry out the sauce. Instead, gently heat it in a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative, providing extra fiber and nutrients. It may require slight adjustments in cooking time, so keep an eye on it for the perfect texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe is easily doubled. Just ensure that your pan is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients, and remember to adjust cooking time slightly, checking the pasta doneness.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The creamy garlic sauce is mild and flavorful, appealing to both kids and adults. It’s an excellent way to introduce younger eaters to garlic and cream in a balanced and delicious way.
Can I make it ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them right before cooking. As for cooked pasta, it may not retain its texture when refrigerated for too long.
What can I serve with One Pan Creamy Garlic Pasta?
It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty garlic bread. You could also add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal, making it even more filling and satisfying.
Conclusion: This One Pan Creamy Garlic Pasta is a must-try recipe that delivers convenience without sacrificing flavor. With its easy step-by-step process, you can whip up this delightful dish in just 20 minutes. Perfect for families, this dish allows you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Enjoy cooking and happy eating!
