One Pot Lemon Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Short Description

One Pot Lemon Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the bright zest of lemon, the aromatic depth of garlic, and the rich, velvety texture of Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make meal comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze while delivering a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
• Minimal cleanup – Cooking everything in one pot means fewer dishes to wash.
• Rich and creamy – The combination of Parmesan cheese and a touch of butter creates a luxuriously creamy sauce.
• Bright and fresh – Lemon zest and juice add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese and garlic.
• Customizable – Easily adjust ingredients or add proteins like shrimp or chicken to make it heartier.
• Vegetarian-friendly – A satisfying meal that’s perfect for vegetarians but can be adapted to include meat.

Ingredients

• Pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work best)
• Butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Heavy cream or milk
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Salt
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients – Mince the garlic, grate the Parmesan cheese, and zest and juice the lemon before starting to ensure smooth cooking.
2. Sauté the Garlic – In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add Liquid and Pasta – Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the uncooked pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Simmer Until Cooked – Allow the pasta to cook in the broth until it is al dente. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and absorption of the liquid.
5. Incorporate Dairy and Lemon – Reduce the heat to low and add heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
6. Season to Taste – Add black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt as needed.
7. Garnish and Serve – Finish with fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Variations

• Add Protein – Stir in cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy pancetta for a heartier meal.
• Make It Lighter – Substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
• Go Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth is gluten-free.
• Extra Veggies – Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

How can I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Stir the pasta frequently while cooking and ensure there is enough liquid in the pot.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best texture and flavor, as pre-grated versions often contain anti-caking agents.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are ideal for this creamy sauce, but any pasta will work.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes to give it some heat.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus would complement the flavors well.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let it simmer a bit longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry to thicken.

Can I make this in advance?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare it ahead and reheat with a splash of liquid to maintain the creamy texture.

What can I serve with this pasta?

Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or grilled chicken make great accompaniments.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pot and adjust liquid amounts accordingly.

Conclusion

One Pot Lemon Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a simple yet luxurious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bright lemony flavor, creamy Parmesan sauce, and garlicky depth, it’s bound to become a household favorite. Whether you enjoy it as a quick dinner or a special weekend meal, this dish delivers comfort and elegance in every bite. Give it a try and enjoy the convenience of a delicious, one-pot pasta!

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