One Pot Lemon Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Short Description

One Pot Lemon Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the tangy brightness of lemon, the savory depth of garlic, and the rich creaminess of Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights as it comes together quickly in a single pot, minimizing cleanup while maximizing taste. With simple ingredients and a restaurant-quality taste, this pasta dish is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot convenience – Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
• Balanced flavors – The combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan creates a perfect harmony of tangy, savory, and creamy notes.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Versatile – You can add proteins like chicken or shrimp or keep it vegetarian.
• Crowd-pleaser – A dish that appeals to both adults and kids alike.

Ingredients

pasta of choice
olive oil
butter
garlic cloves
vegetable or chicken broth
heavy cream
lemon juice
lemon zest
Parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
red pepper flakes (optional)
parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Heat the oil and butter – In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and melt the butter.
2. Sauté the garlic – Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the liquid and pasta – Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth along with the heavy cream. Stir in the uncooked pasta and bring to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the pasta – Lower the heat to a simmer and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, until it is tender and the liquid has reduced.
5. Incorporate the flavors – Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine.
6. Add Parmesan cheese – Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes creamy and coats the pasta evenly.
7. Adjust consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a little extra broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Garnish and serve – Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Variations

• Protein boost – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon for extra flavor and texture.
• Vegetable additions – Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or asparagus for a nutritious twist.
• Dairy-free version – Use coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and swap the Parmesan for nutritional yeast.
• Spicy kick – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing – Not recommended due to the dairy content, which may cause separation when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any short or long pasta works well, though cooking times may vary slightly.

What if my sauce is too thick?

Simply add a little extra broth or cream and stir until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be less creamy. Whole milk or half-and-half works best as a substitute.

How do I make it vegan?

Use dairy-free butter, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

What protein pairs best with this dish?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon are excellent choices that complement the flavors.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers are great additions to make the dish even healthier.

What’s the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a microplane or fine grater to remove only the outer yellow part of the lemon peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! If serving to kids, you may want to reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder taste.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance for quicker cooking.

What herbs can I use instead of parsley?

Basil, thyme, or chives can be great substitutes for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

One Pot Lemon Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a delicious, creamy, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this flavorful pasta will impress. With its bright lemony tang, rich Parmesan sauce, and fragrant garlic, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today and enjoy a hassle-free, restaurant-quality meal at home!

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