If you’re a fan of dreamy, comforting pasta packed with flavor (and just a touch of kitchen wizardry), you’re about to fall head-over-heels for Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!). This is the perfect meal for those busy weeks when you crave a restaurant-worthy dish without the mountain of dishes at the end. Each delightfully chewy noodle clings to a silky, garlicky sauce that’s rich with butter, Parmesan, and just a spritz of lemon—making every bite taste like you fussed for hours (even though you didn’t). Whether you’re feeding the family or just treating yourself, Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) checks every box: quick, satisfying, and just what your taste buds have been waiting for.

Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) thrives on the humble magic of well-chosen ingredients. Each one plays an important role—whether it’s bringing depth, savoriness, brightness, or that irresistible creamy finish. Get everything ready ahead of time so you can enjoy the relaxed pace of practically effortless cooking.

Dried basil, oregano, and parsley: This trio infuses the pasta with an herby fragrance that’s both familiar and inviting, layering flavor from the start.
Mustard powder, dried thyme, onion powder, pepper: Each adds subtle complexity, balancing the richness and giving the pasta a savory backbone.
Butter: Don’t skimp! Butter is the heart and soul of this dish, lending richness and a beautiful gloss to the sauce.
Fresh garlic: Those four cloves are where the magic happens—minced garlic blooms in the butter, infusing every noodle with warmth and depth.
Chicken broth: Using broth instead of water means every bite is infused with a savory, golden undertone.
Half and half: Creamy, but not too heavy—just right for a silky sauce that clings to each piece of pasta.
Soy sauce: This secret ingredient adds a dash of umami and depth that will leave your guests wondering about your “special touch.”
Chicken bouillon cube: Half a cube boosts the savoriness and ties the flavors together beautifully.
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): The cheese melts into the sauce for nutty richness—always reach for the good stuff here.
Fresh lemon juice: Just a bit brightens the whole dish, keeping things lively and balanced.
Shellbow pasta: This fun pasta shape has nooks and crannies for the garlicky, buttery sauce to hide in—every bite packs a punch!

How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!)

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

This is the speedy start that makes everything else flow seamlessly—combine all your dried herbs and seasonings in a small bowl, and measure everything else in advance. Trust me, the pace picks up once you get going, so a little bit of prep means you can just enjoy the process.

Step 2: Sauté Fragrant Garlic & Spices

Add 3 tablespoons of the butter to your favorite soup pot over medium heat. Scoop in the minced garlic and your prepared seasoning mix, then stir constantly. As soon as the butter foams and the garlic smells amazing, you know you’re right on track—the kitchen will smell like heaven already.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Base

Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and toss in the bouillon cube. Stir it all together so those flavors can start mingling. This is where the rich, savory foundation of Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) comes alive.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta (One Pot Magic!)

Bring everything up to a lively boil and add the shellbow pasta right into the pot. Reduce to a gentle boil and let the pasta cook uncovered, stirring often. Use a silicone spatula to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom—nobody likes stuck noodles! Test for doneness: you want the pasta perfectly tender so it can soak up all that beautiful sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan & Lemon

Lower the heat to its absolute minimum, then sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan, stirring as it melts to transform everything into a creamy, glossy sauce. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. That little squeeze lifts and balances all the savory richness.

Step 6: Final Butter Boost

Dot the pasta with the final tablespoon of butter, pop the lid on, and let it melt in the residual heat. Give everything a gentle toss and watch the pasta turn perfectly glossy. Serve it up while it’s hot and irresistible!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!)

Garnishes

Give your bowl a final flourish! A handful of fresh parsley, extra Parmesan shavings, or even a sprinkle of cracked black pepper elevates the finished dish. If you’re feeling fancy, a little zest of lemon right before serving promises an extra pop of color and brightness.

Side Dishes

This pasta is lovely with simple sides that don’t compete for attention. Think crisp green salads, roasted asparagus, or blistered cherry tomatoes. A chunk of crusty bread is practically a must for mopping up every garlicky drop of sauce from your Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!).

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, nest the pasta in wide, shallow serving bowls and finish with a sprig of basil. If you’re hosting, pile the pasta high in a big communal dish and let everyone help themselves. It also makes a fabulous base for grilled shrimp, roasted chicken, or roasted mushrooms if you want to stretch things even further.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any cooled leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors deepen as they sit, so the Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) may even taste better the next day!

Freezing

While you can technically freeze this pasta, it’s best enjoyed fresh. The creamy sauce can separate a bit upon thawing, though a gentle reheat and a splash of cream or milk can help bring it back together in a pinch.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of broth, cream, or milk to help revive the sauce’s creaminess. Stir gently and heat only until warmed through to avoid overcooking the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! While shellbow pasta catches the sauce wonderfully, penne, rotini, or good old spaghetti work well too—just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is there a vegetarian option for this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!)?

Yes! Swap the chicken broth and bouillon for vegetable broth and a vegetable bouillon cube to keep all the flavor but make it totally meat-free.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can experiment with plant-based butter, non-dairy cream (like oat or coconut), and dairy-free Parmesan if you’re avoiding lactose or dairy products—all in all, the final result will still be rich and delicious.

What can I add for protein?

Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted chickpeas all play nicely here. Just stir them in towards the end for a more substantial meal.

Do I really have to use fresh Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan is highly recommended for the best melt and flavor, but in a pinch, pre-grated Parmesan will do. Just steer clear of the shelf-stable, powdered kind for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t yet fallen for this Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!), now’s the time to give it a try. It’s the kind of meal you make once and immediately add to your favorites list—simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to turn any night into something special. Grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and let the garlicky goodness work its magic!

Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!) Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 14 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This one-pot garlic butter pasta is a flavorful and creamy dish that comes together quickly for a satisfying meal.

Instructions

Combine Seasonings: Mix all the seasonings in a bowl and set aside.
Sauté Garlic and Seasonings: Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a soup pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and the mixed seasonings, stirring until the butter foams.
Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and bouillon cube. Bring to a boil.
Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook uncovered according to package instructions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finish Pasta: Lower heat, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Remove from heat, add lemon juice, and remaining butter. Stir until combined.
Serve: Cover the pot briefly to let the butter melt, then gently mix and serve hot.