One Pot Lemon Garlic pasta has been my go-to for those evenings when I’m craving something delicious but dread the cleanup. I remember the first time I tried this recipe; the aroma of garlic and lemon filled my kitchen, promising a bright, flavorful meal. It’s truly an easy one-pot pasta that delivers big on taste with minimal fuss. The combination of tender broccoli and perfectly cooked pasta in a zesty sauce makes this lemon garlic pasta with broccoli a winner every time. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta

Incredible flavor: The bright lemon and savory garlic create a taste sensation.
Super speedy prep: Get a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Healthy and wholesome: Packed with veggies and lean protein, it’s a nutritious choice.
Budget-friendly: Uses simple, common ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Family-approved: Even picky eaters will devour this flavorful pasta dish.
Minimal cleanup: As a true one-pot meal, you’ll have fewer dishes to wash.
Versatile: This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

Ingredients for One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta with Broccoli

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to this amazing garlic lemon pasta. You’ll be surprised how few things you need for such a flavorful dish!

8 oz Pasta (penne or linguine recommended) – penne holds the sauce well, but linguine is also fantastic
4 cups Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) – fresh gives the best texture, but frozen works in a pinch
4 cloves Garlic cloves, minced – the star of the show, so don’t be shy!
1/4 cup Lemon juice, freshly squeezed – fresh juice is key for that bright, zesty kick
2 tbsp Olive oil – extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely richness
4 cups Vegetable broth or water – this is what cooks the pasta and creates the sauce
1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional) – for a hint of warmth
1 tsp Salt – adjust to your taste, especially considering broth saltiness
1 tsp Black pepper – freshly ground is always best
1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated – adds a salty, creamy finish
1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped – for a burst of freshness at the end

How to Make One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Get your large pot ready over medium heat. Add the 2 tbsp olive oil and let it shimmer for about a minute. This is where the magic begins for your quick lemon garlic pasta.
Step 2: Toss in the 4 cloves minced garlic and the optional 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Sauté them until they smell wonderfully fragrant and turn a gentle golden hue, which usually takes 1–2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 3: Now, add the uncooked 8 oz pasta, the 4 cups broccoli florets, 4 cups vegetable broth or water, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Give everything a good stir to make sure it’s all submerged and combined. Crank the heat up to high until you get a vigorous, rolling boil.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered. Stir every so often to prevent sticking. You’re looking for the pasta to be perfectly al dente and for most of the liquid to be absorbed, which typically takes about 10–12 minutes. This is the key to a successful quick lemon garlic pasta.

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Step 5: Once the pasta is cooked and the liquid is mostly gone, stir in the 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese and the 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Stir until the cheese is melted and coats everything in a creamy, dreamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve your delicious one pot lemon garlic pasta immediately. Ladle it into warm bowls and garnish with a little extra Parmesan and a few more parsley leaves for that fresh finish. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dish!

Pro Tips for the Best One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta

Want to elevate your one pot lemon garlic dish from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference. Follow these simple tips for guaranteed success!

Always measure your liquid accurately. Too much broth can make the pasta mushy, while too little might leave it undercooked.
Don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings as you go. Taste the sauce before adding cheese and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Reserve some pasta water before draining if you prefer a saucier consistency; a splash can help loosen it up.
Adding lemon zest along with the juice gives an even more vibrant citrus punch.

What’s the secret to perfect One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta?

The real secret to a perfect one pot lemon garlic pasta lies in managing the liquid-to-pasta ratio and not overcooking it. Stirring occasionally prevents sticking, and finishing with fresh cheese and parsley brings it all together beautifully. It’s truly the best one pot lemon garlic recipe for a reason!

Can I make One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed immediately, you can prep the ingredients ahead. Chop your veggies and mince the garlic up to a day in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This makes the actual cooking process even faster!

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta?

A common pitfall is burning the garlic – sauté it gently until fragrant, not brown. Another mistake is over-stirring, which can break the pasta. Stir just enough to prevent sticking. Finally, ensure your pasta is fully submerged before boiling to cook evenly.

Best Ways to Serve One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta

This vibrant one pot lemon garlic pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions. For a truly satisfying experience, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. The fresh greens offer a lovely contrast to the rich, zesty pasta. Another fantastic pairing is some crusty garlic bread, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. If you’re looking to add more protein, grilled chicken or shrimp are excellent choices that complement the flavors of this lemon garlic pasta with broccoli beautifully.

Nutrition Facts for One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving for this delicious one pot lemon garlic dish. It’s a satisfying meal that balances flavor and good-for-you ingredients.

Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Protein: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 600 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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How to Store and Reheat One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta

Keeping your delicious one pot lemon garlic pasta fresh for later is super easy, which is part of why I love this minimal cleanup lemon garlic pasta so much! Once it has cooled down completely, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, it freezes beautifully! Pack it into freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to remove as much air as possible, and it will stay good for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thawing overnight in the fridge is the best method. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or a little olive oil to bring back that creamy texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave, again with a little extra liquid to prevent it from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta

What makes this One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta so easy?

The “one-pot” method is the real magic here! Everything cooks together in a single pot, meaning no separate boiling of pasta or sautéing of veggies. This drastically cuts down on prep and cleanup, making it a perfect candidate for an easy weeknight lemon garlic pasta when you’re short on time and energy.

Can I add protein to this One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even some white beans or chickpeas right at the end with the cheese and parsley. It makes for an even heartier and more complete meal, perfect for a satisfying dinner any night of the week.

What kind of pasta works best for One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta?

While penne and linguine are my favorites, most short or medium-length pastas work well. Think rotini, farfalle, or even fusilli. The key is to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid so it cooks evenly. Avoid very thin pastas like angel hair, as they can become mushy.

How do I make this One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta spicier?

If you love a little heat, you’re in luck! The recipe already includes optional red pepper flakes. For an extra kick, feel free to double the amount of red pepper flakes, or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic and oil mixture in the beginning. This will make your easy weeknight lemon garlic pasta a bit more fiery!

Variations of One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta You Can Try

This amazing one pot lemon garlic dish is wonderfully adaptable! Whether you have dietary needs or just want to switch things up, here are a few ideas to make it your own. For a truly healthy one pot lemon garlic pasta, consider adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini in the last few minutes of cooking.

Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or canned chickpeas with the Parmesan cheese for a heartier meal.
Veggie Boost: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or some diced bell peppers along with the broccoli for extra nutrients and color.
Creamier Sauce: For a richer texture, stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or heavy cream along with the Parmesan.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the initial sauté for a bit more heat.