Description
This Easy One Pot Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that combines bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich parmesan cheese into a creamy sauce cooked directly with the pasta for minimal cleanup. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting dish is perfect for a simple yet elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- Zest of one lemon
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- Pinch chili flakes (optional)
- 400-450g dried pasta noodles (rigatoni or mezzie rigatoni)
- 4 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- Garnish: more shredded parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and fresh basil
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or pan with high sides over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in lemon zest, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using, to combine the flavors thoroughly.
- Cook Pasta in Broth: Add pasta noodles and pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot mostly with a lid and cook for 12-14 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes to prevent sticking. Check for doneness as per pasta package instructions.
- Finish Sauce: When the pasta is cooked and most liquid is absorbed, add more broth in 1/2 cup increments if needed. Stir in lemon juice, shredded parmesan cheese, and 1 tbsp butter until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Adjust salt, pepper, or chili flakes to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the pasta hot topped with extra shredded parmesan, lemon zest, and fresh basil for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for more flavor; water can be used in a pinch but may yield a milder taste.
- Adjust simmering time based on the specific pasta brand and shape to avoid overcooked or undercooked noodles.
- The extra butter added at the end helps create a richer, creamier texture without cream.
- For a spicier dish, increase the chili flakes or add freshly ground black pepper.
- Fresh basil adds a nice herbal aroma but can be substituted with parsley if unavailable.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
