Garlic Parmesan Pasta – Easy One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta
This one-pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and bright with lemon flavor. A cozy, no-fuss dinner ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for weeknights or budget meals with no meat required.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian inspired
Ingredients
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2 tbsp butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
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1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
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1/2 lb linguine (about 8 oz)
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
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1/2 tsp lemon zest
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1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Sauté Garlic: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add Liquids & Pasta: Pour in broth and milk. Stir in salt, pepper, and linguine. Ensure pasta is submerged.
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Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
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Finish the Sauce: Turn off heat and stir in Parmesan, lemon juice, and zest until creamy.
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Serve: Garnish with parsley and extra cheese. Serve hot.
Notes
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Substitute linguine with spaghetti or fettuccine.
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For a richer sauce, use cream or half-and-half.
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Add red pepper flakes for heat or mix in veggies like spinach.
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Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk.