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A bowl of 20-minute creamy pasta dinner, ready to eat.

20-Minute Weeknight Creamy Pasta

This creamy pasta comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you'll have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • large, deep skillet
  • Dutch oven

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz about 2 cups short pasta penne, rotini, farfalle work great
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 3 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated, plus more for serving
  • Salt & Black Pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley or Basil chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add uncooked pasta, broth, and cream to the skillet; season with salt and pepper.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is al dente and liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan until melted and creamy; adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately with extra Parmesan.

Notes

For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic. Ensure to stir the pasta frequently during simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.