If you’ve ever wished for a pasta dinner that’s quick, deeply flavorful, and leaves just one pan to clean, you’re about to be delighted. One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta marries silky noodles, aromatic garlic, and fragrant herbs in a rich, creamy sauce that comes together right on your stovetop. There’s no draining, no juggling pots, and each slurp delivers vibrant flavor backed by Parmesan and a whisper of fresh parsley. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you simply crave comfort in a bowl, this is a recipe you’ll want in regular rotation.

One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe works double duty, bringing both taste and texture to the party, while keeping the approach refreshingly simple. From the base pasta to the final sprinkle of herbs, each adds its own special magic, ensuring your One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta tastes like much more than the sum of its parts.

Spaghetti or Linguine: Twelve ounces of these long noodles soak up all the savory broth, becoming infused with garlicky, herby goodness.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Four cups provide flavor and moisture—much tastier than water, your pasta absorbs every drop.
Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon adds silkiness and helps bloom the garlic for that crucial savory foundation.
Garlic, minced: Four cloves lend bold aroma and a punchy flavor that really sings in each bite.
Dried Oregano: A teaspoon brings that trademark Mediterranean zing and a subtle warmth.
Dried Basil: Another teaspoon freshens up the profile, complementing the oregano without overwhelming it.
Thyme: Half a teaspoon adds a delicate earthiness that rounds out the herb blend beautifully.
Salt: A half-teaspoon seasons the dish perfectly—taste and tweak at the end if you like.
Black Pepper: A quarter teaspoon provides gentle heat and depth, letting the garlic and herbs shine.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: One cup gets stirred in for creamy richness and that irresistible salty, savory edge.
Butter: Two tablespoons melt in at the finish, making your sauce glossy and delectable.
Fresh Parsley (optional): A quarter cup chopped lends bright color and a burst of fresh flavor on top.
Lemon wedges (optional): Serve alongside for a fresh citrus pop that wakes up all the flavors.

How to Make One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by warming your olive oil in a spacious, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it shimmer for one to two minutes—keep a close eye so it doesn’t brown. As soon as your kitchen fills with the aroma of sautéed garlic, you’ll know flavor is building in the best way possible.

Step 2: Bloom the Herbs

Sprinkle in your oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper right into the sautéed garlic. Give everything a good stir to coat the garlic in the herbs, allowing their flavors to mingle and infuse the oil. This step unlocks deeper aromatics and ensures the finished One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta is layered and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broth and Pasta

Pour in the broth and crank up the heat to bring it all to a lively boil. Add the uncooked pasta directly to the pan, nudging it a bit so it’s mostly submerged in the liquid. Don’t worry if it sticks out at first—it will soften and nestle in as it cooks. This method means the pasta absorbs so much extra flavor.

Step 4: Simmer Until Al Dente

Turn the heat down to medium-low and let the dish simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally, gently separating the noodles and making sure they don’t stick to the pan. In about 10 to 12 minutes, the pasta should be al dente and most of the liquid will have been absorbed, creating a glossy, starchy base for your sauce.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Butter

With the heat off, toss in the butter and Parmesan, stirring until both melt into the hot pasta. The residual warmth will transform everything into a silky, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust your seasoning if needed. The result? Irresistible One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta that looks and smells like a hug in a bowl.

How to Serve One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta

Garnishes

A generous shower of fresh chopped parsley gives your pasta a lively green flourish, while an extra sprinkle of Parmesan is always welcome. If you love a citrusy lift, a squeeze from a lemon wedge perks up each twirl and brings all the flavors into perfect harmony.

Side Dishes

One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple garlic bread. These sides complement the flavors of the pasta without overshadowing it, adding a fresh and crunchy contrast to the creamy main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a truly showstopping table, serve this pasta straight from the pan for a rustic, communal feel. To elevate further, twirl servings onto plates and top with microgreens, toasted pine nuts, or even roasted cherry tomatoes. For company, try piling the pasta high in a shallow bowl with lemon slices tucked around the rim—it looks vibrant and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), transfer the cooled One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making your second round just as enticing.

Freezing

While this pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a pinch. Spoon into freezer-safe containers, pressing out excess air, and freeze for up to one month. Keep in mind, the creamy sauce may separate a bit after thawing, but a gentle stir on reheating brings it back together nicely.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the pasta and warm it over low heat on the stove, or use short bursts in the microwave. This helps to loosen up the sauce and restores its creamy texture. Just stir well before serving and enjoy that garlicky goodness all over again.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta for One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta?

Absolutely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or linguine. You may need to adjust the cook time and add a splash more broth if the pasta seems to absorb extra liquid.

How do I make the sauce extra creamy?

For an even richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream just before stirring in the Parmesan and butter. This gives your One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta an ultra-silky finish and a bit more decadence.

Can I add vegetables or proteins to this recipe?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, or even grilled chicken are fantastic additions. Just cook them separately and add in at the end, or stir leafy greens into the hot pasta to wilt.

What type Main Course

Use whichever you prefer—vegetable broth keeps the dish vegetarian and highlights the herbs, while chicken broth adds even more savory depth. Homemade or low-sodium broths are especially recommended for full control over saltiness and flavor.

Why is my pasta sticking to the pan?

Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks, especially in the beginning. If it starts to look a little dry before it’s fully cooked, just add a bit more broth or warm water to loosen things up.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a dreamy, low-effort dinner that everyone will ask for again, One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta is your new go-to. Every bite delivers cozy comfort and unbeatable flavor, and cleanup is a breeze. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with how easy (and delicious) life can taste, all from just one pan.

One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti:

12 ounces

Broth:

4 cups vegetable or chicken

Olive Oil:

1 tablespoon

Garlic:

4 cloves, minced

Dried Herbs:

1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon thyme

Salt and Pepper:

½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Parmesan Cheese:

1 cup grated

Butter:

2 tablespoons

Parsley:

¼ cup chopped fresh (optional)

Lemon Wedges:

for serving (optional)

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Instructions

Heat Olive Oil: In a large deep skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the dried herbs, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Add the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s mostly submerged. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the butter and grated Parmesan until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

For a richer dish, add a splash of heavy cream with the cheese.
You can also toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken for variation.
Best served immediately for the creamiest texture.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American