Description

This Garlic Butter Pasta is a flavorful, creamy one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining a rich blend of herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is cooked quickly in a single pot, making clean-up a breeze. The pasta simmers in a savory broth and half-and-half mixture, then is finished with fresh lemon juice and a pat of butter for a luscious, satisfying comfort food experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Seasonings

¾ teaspoon dried basil
¾ teaspoon dried oregano
¾ teaspoon dried parsley
¾ teaspoon mustard powder
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon pepper

Butter and Aromatics

4 tablespoons butter (divided)
4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)

Liquids and Broth

2 ¾ cups chicken broth
¾ cup half and half
1 teaspoon soy sauce
½ chicken bouillon cube

Other Ingredients

¾ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ lb. Shellbow pasta (or similar pasta)

Instructions

Prepare Seasonings and Ingredients: Combine all the dried herbs and spices in a small bowl and set aside. Measure out all remaining ingredients before starting to cook, since the recipe proceeds quickly once begun.
Sauté Garlic and Herbs: In a soup pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and the prepared seasoning mix. Stir continuously until the butter begins to foam and the garlic becomes fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Add Liquids and Bouillon: Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and add the half bouillon cube. Stir to combine everything evenly, bringing the mixture toward a boil.
Cook Pasta: Once boiling, add the Shellbow pasta to the pot. Return to a gentle boil and cook uncovered according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally. Use a silicone spatula to scrape the bottom and prevent the pasta from sticking. Taste the pasta at the end to ensure it’s tender yet firm.
Incorporate Cheese and Lemon: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Remove the pot from heat, then stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Finish with Butter and Serve: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pot, cover, and let it melt into the pasta for a minute. Gently stir the butter through to coat the pasta evenly and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and flavor.
Shellbow pasta or other small shaped pasta works best to evenly soak up the creamy sauce.
Stir the pasta frequently while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and gives a richer taste than pre-grated.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth and bouillon with vegetable broth and omit soy sauce if desired.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, as bouillon and soy sauce add saltiness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Garlic Butter Pasta, one pot pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, Parmesan pasta