Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe

If you’re as obsessed with garlic and buttery goodness as I am, you’re going to love this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe. It’s one of my absolute favorite quick meals when I want something rich, comforting, and fuss-free. What makes it so special? Besides the fact that it all cooks in one pot (yes, one pot!), the layers of herbs, fresh garlic, and a hint of lemon really bring this dish to life in a way that feels both cozy and fresh.

This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want to whip up something satisfying without a sink full of dishes waiting for you. Plus, it’s super versatile—you can add your favorite protein or keep it simple as is. Once you try this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe, you’ll see why it’s become a kitchen staple for me, and you’ll enjoy how easy it is to make yet feels like a special treat.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe plays a role in achieving that perfect balance of creaminess, flavor, and texture. Fresh garlic and herbs bring brightness, while butter and Parmesan add richness, and the pasta absorbs all those flavors beautifully. Here’s a quick shopping tip: always grab fresh garlic and real Parmesan wedges for the best results—you’ll taste the difference.

• Dried Basil, Oregano, Parsley, Mustard Powder, Thyme, Onion Powder, Pepper: These seasonings create a herby, well-rounded flavor profile that complements the butter without overpowering it.
• Butter: Divided for sautéeing garlic and finishing the dish for that silky texture and richness.
• Fresh Garlic: Essential for authentic flavor—you won’t get the same magical aroma with jarred minced garlic.
• Chicken Broth: Provides a savory base and cooks the pasta right in the pot for maximum flavor absorption.
• Half and Half: Adds creaminess without making it too heavy—perfect balance.
• Soy Sauce: A subtle umami booster that enhances flavor depth without tasting like soy.
• Chicken Bouillon Cube: Concentrated flavor to punch everything up.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated to melt smoothly and add cheesy richness that ties the sauce together.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for brightness that cuts through the richness.
• Shellbow Pasta: Its shape holds onto sauce nicely—though you can experiment with similar pastas like cavatappi or small shells!

Make It Your Way

This garlic butter pasta is a fantastic base that’s easy to personalize. I love tossing in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for some greenery and earthiness. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp if you want to bump up the protein. Don’t hesitate to experiment—this recipe adapts well!

• Vegetarian Variation: I often skip the chicken broth for veggie broth and add mushrooms to keep it hearty and meat-free.
• Protein Boost: Adding shredded rotisserie chicken or seared shrimp right before serving makes it a complete meal.
• Spice It Up: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat that contrasts beautifully with the buttery sauce.
• Dairy-Free Twist: Try a non-dairy half and half and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to make this recipe allergy-friendly.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season for Success

Before you turn on the stove, get all your seasonings mixed and measure out the liquids and pasta. This recipe moves quickly once you start, so having everything ready sets you up for a smooth process. I combine the dried basil, oregano, parsley, mustard powder, thyme, onion powder, and pepper in a small bowl—trust me, this blend gives the sauce that herby backbone you’ll love.

Step 2: Butter, Garlic & Herbs Come Together

Heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a soup pot over medium heat, then toss in the minced fresh garlic along with your seasoned herb mixture. Keep stirring so the garlic softens and the butter foams up without browning or burning the garlic—that can ruin the flavor. This buttery garlic base is your flavor powerhouse here, so take your time and enjoy that heavenly aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 3: Make the Brothy Cream Sauce & Cook Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and crumble in the chicken bouillon cube. Bring it all to a boil, then add your pasta. Keep the heat at a gentle boil and stir occasionally, especially scraping the bottom with a silicone spatula so nothing sticks or burns. I always taste the pasta near the end of cook time to make sure it’s just right—tender but still with a little bite (al dente) tastes best in this one-pot pasta.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese, Lemon & Finish with Butter

Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat to low and gradually mix in the Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly. Take the pot off the heat and add fresh lemon juice—it brightens the whole dish beautifully. Then add the remaining tablespoon of butter, cover the pot for a few minutes so the butter melts perfectly, and gently stir it through. This last step seals in that luscious buttery finish that makes this recipe unforgettable.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top and add a handful of chopped fresh parsley for color and a fresh herbal note. Sometimes, a crack of black pepper or a few red pepper flakes adds just the right hint of heat. If I have it on hand, lemon zest can also brighten things up even more.

Side Dishes

This garlic butter pasta pairs so well with crispy garlic bread (because, why not?), a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or even my favorite Chicken Milanese for a heartier dinner. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus or green beans also complement it wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes serve this pasta in individual bowls with a sprig of fresh thyme or basil on top. Adding edible flowers or wrapping the plate edge with a lemon twist gives it a restaurant-style flair that delights guests. It’s simple but feels so thoughtful served this way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find that the pasta tends to soak up the sauce as it sits, so it might look a bit drier than when freshly made. But the flavor remains amazing and it reheats beautifully with the right technique.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe a few times, and while the texture isn’t quite the same after thawing, the taste really holds up. Just freeze in a portioned airtight container for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat it without drying out is on the stovetop using a low heat double boiler method—put the pasta in a heat-safe bowl over simmering water and stir gently taking care not to overheat it. Adding a splash of broth or half and half helps to loosen the sauce back up and keep it creamy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe a try—it’s truly comfort food at its easiest and most delicious. It’s one of those dishes I keep coming back to when I want something cozy but simple, and I think you’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together without compromising on flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend lunch, this recipe has the kind of warmth and familiarity that feels like a hug on a plate. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!

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