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One Pot Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe


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4.3 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This One Pot Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender penne pasta cooked directly in a rich, creamy sauce made with chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is both comforting and flavorful. Ready in just 30 minutes, it offers an effortless way to enjoy a decadent pasta dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.


Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 8 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped


Instructions

  1. Saute the garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
  2. Add pasta and broth: Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and uncooked penne pasta into the skillet. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste.
  3. Cook the pasta: Bring the liquid and pasta mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese: Once the pasta is cooked through, remove from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and fresh flavor before serving immediately.

Notes

  • Use low sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering the pasta to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian