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One Pot Herb & Garlic Pasta

This one pot pasta is cooked entirely in a single pot, with fresh herbs toasted at the start to develop aroma and flavor. The pasta absorbs a creamy sauce made from pantry staples, resulting in a velvety, cheesy dish with a tender, pasta exterior and a rich, infused sauce coating each strand.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz dried spaghetti or your favorite pasta
  • 3 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for toasting herbs and sautéing
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 cup heavy cream for richness
  • 1 cup shredded cheese such as Parmesan or mozzarella
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot with lid
  • Cooking spoon

Method
 

  1. Pour the vegetable broth into a large pot, add the dried pasta, and bring to a lively boil over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the pasta is just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. The broth will reduce as the pasta absorbs the liquid.
  2. Once the broth is mostly absorbed and the pasta is tender, add the olive oil and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring gently, until the garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn golden, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Toss in the sprigs of fresh thyme, letting them toast briefly with the garlic, filling the kitchen with herbal aroma. Remove the thyme sprigs, gently pressing to release any remaining flavor.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream, coating the pasta evenly as it begins to thicken and turn a creamy, velvety texture. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  5. Add the shredded cheese to the pot, stirring continuously until it melts completely and the sauce is silky and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if needed. The final dish should be creamy, aromatic, and coating every strand of pasta with a rich herb-infused sauce.

Notes

Feel free to garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese before serving.