One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta

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Golden strands of spaghetti twirled in a glossy, fragrant garlic and herb butter sauce—this One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta is a weeknight miracle dish. With a comforting aroma of sautéed garlic, whispers of rosemary and thyme, and a splash of lemon zest for brightness, every forkful is a balance of richness and freshness.

Best of all? This pasta comes together in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze and preparation effortless. It’s a perfect choice when you’re craving a warm, flavorful meal without piling up a sink full of dishes. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking for a simple solo supper, this dish brings maximum satisfaction with minimum effort.

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Ingredients for this One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta

• 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of thyme, rosemary, oregano)
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (low sodium)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Herbs

In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t brown. Stir in the Italian herbs and red pepper flakes for a brief 30 seconds to bloom their flavor.

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Step 2: Add Pasta and Broth

Carefully pour in the broth and bring it to a light boil. Add the dry pasta straight into the pan. Use tongs to gently push the pasta into the liquid until fully submerged. Lower the heat slightly and let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

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Step 3: Simmer to Al Dente

Continue cooking for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. The broth should reduce into a starchy, silky sauce that clings to the noodles.

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Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Lemon

Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan and lemon zest. Toss everything until the cheese melts and the sauce turns creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot, straight from the pan for that rustic, comforting vibe.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Simply substitute the spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Watch the cooking time closely, as some gluten-free varieties cook faster and may break apart if overcooked.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Absolutely! Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy chickpeas during the final step for extra heartiness. Be sure your protein is pre-cooked since this is a quick one-pan dish.

What if I don’t have vegetable or chicken broth?

You can use water in a pinch, but it will slightly reduce the richness. Adding a bouillon cube or some garlic powder can help bring back the flavor depth.

Is this pasta spicy?

Not by default. The red pepper flakes are optional. If you prefer a milder dish, just leave them out.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried. Add most during the sautéing step, but reserve some for a vibrant finish.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Stirring occasionally as it simmers is key. Also, using enough liquid (as listed) and not overcrowding the pan helps keep the noodles separate and well-coated.

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