This creamy garlic parmesan pasta is one of my favorite quick comfort meals. I make it all in one pot, and the angel hair pasta soaks up a buttery, garlicky cream sauce that tastes like it took hours, but in reality, I get it on the table in just 20 minutes. It’s rich, cozy, and simple—perfect on its own or paired with chicken, steak, or shrimp.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and reliable this recipe is. With just a handful of ingredients, I can make a restaurant-quality meal at home. I only need one pan, which means cleanup is minimal. The sauce comes together silky smooth, especially when I use freshly grated Parmesan, and the angel hair pasta cooks perfectly right in the sauce. When I want an easy weeknight dinner that everyone in my family will eat, this is always a safe choice.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Parmesan cheese, finely grated

• Butter, divided

• Fresh garlic, minced

• Chicken broth

• Milk

• Angel hair pasta

• Fresh parsley, to garnish

• Optional seasonings: onion powder, oregano, thyme, parsley, pepper

Directions

1. I start by grating the Parmesan cheese and letting it come to room temperature so it melts smoothly.

2. In a large skillet, I melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

3. I add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

4. I pour in chicken broth and any optional seasonings, then slowly stir in the milk and bring everything to a boil.

5. I add the pasta—sometimes breaking it in half to fit better—and use kitchen tongs to twist it into the skillet as it softens.

6. I let it simmer for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally so the noodles don’t stick.

7. I reduce the heat to low, add the last tablespoon of butter, and toss the pasta to coat.

8. Finally, I sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. I let it rest a minute to thicken before serving, then top with parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes me about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, so dinner is ready in just 20 minutes.

Variations

• Sometimes I swap the angel hair pasta for spaghetti, but I increase the broth and milk slightly and cook it a bit longer.

• I like adding shrimp, grilled chicken, or steak on top for extra protein.

• A handful of spinach or roasted broccoli stirred in makes it a little heartier.

• For a touch of heat, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes.

• When I want a deeper flavor, I cook mushrooms in butter before adding the garlic.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If I want to freeze it, I let it cool completely and keep it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, I can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne, but I adjust the liquid and cooking time based on the pasta type.

Can I make this with half and half or heavy cream instead of milk?

I can—half and half makes it extra rich, but I prefer milk because the sauce thickens just right without becoming too heavy.

Why is my sauce grainy instead of creamy?

This usually happens if I add the cheese while the sauce is too hot. I always lower the heat first and add the cheese gradually while stirring.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, I just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and the recipe stays just as flavorful.

How do I keep the pasta from clumping together?

I stir it occasionally as it cooks and make sure to add it once the liquid is at a boil. Tongs also help keep the strands separated while they soften.

Conclusion

This garlic parmesan pasta is one of my easiest, most reliable weeknight meals. I love that it comes together in one pot, with creamy pasta ready in just 20 minutes. Whether I keep it simple or dress it up with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables, it always feels like comfort food at its best. It’s a recipe I come back to again and again, especially when I need dinner fast without sacrificing flavor.