Description

This Garlic Butter Pasta is a quick and creamy one-pot meal that combines fragrant garlic, rich butter, and savory seasonings with tender Shellbow pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting dish is made on the stovetop in just 30 minutes and delivers delicious flavor with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Seasonings

¾ teaspoon dried basil
¾ teaspoon dried oregano
¾ teaspoon dried parsley
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ chicken bouillon cube

Dairy and Sauce

4 tablespoons butter, divided
¾ cup half and half
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Other

4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
2 ¾ cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon soy sauce
½ pound Shellbow pasta

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Instructions

Prepare the Seasonings and Ingredients: Combine dried basil, oregano, parsley, mustard powder, dried thyme, onion powder, and black pepper in a small bowl and set aside. Measure out the remaining ingredients so everything is ready as the recipe moves quickly.
Sauté Garlic and Seasonings: In a soup pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and the combined seasonings. Stir continuously until the butter starts to foam and the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Add Liquids and Bouillon: Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and add the chicken bouillon cube. Stir to combine.
Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the Shellbow pasta. Return to a gentle boil and cook uncovered according to the pasta package instructions, stirring occasionally. Use a silicone spatula to lift pasta off the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking. Taste the pasta to ensure it is cooked to your liking.
Incorporate the Cheese and Lemon Juice: Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Finish with Butter: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and cover the pot to let it melt. Gently stir the melted butter into the pasta for a luscious, smooth finish. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting consistency.
Shellbow pasta works well for this recipe, but you can substitute with other small-shaped pasta like elbow macaroni or rotini if needed.
Stir the pasta frequently during cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pot.
If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more chicken broth or half and half to adjust consistency.