Creamy Honey–Garlic Pasta

Some nights call for big effort meals… and some nights call for one pan, zero stress, and a fork-twirl you can’t stop thinking about. This creamy honey–garlic coconut pasta is firmly in the second category.

It starts with a simple question: What happens when sweet honey, savory miso, and silky coconut milk all meet in the same skillet?

The answer is a glossy, crave-worthy pasta that feels cozy, a little unexpected, and wildly satisfying. The noodles cook right in the sauce, soaking up layers of garlicky, umami goodness while you stand there wondering why you don’t cook pasta this way more often.

If you love sweet-savory flavors with a creamy twist and a hint of brightness from fresh lemon, you’re going to want to keep this one in your back pocket. Let us begin.

Let’s make it.

Ingredients

• ⅓ cup honey – provides natural sweetness and creates the signature glossy, lightly sticky texture in the sauce
• 3 tablespoons tamari – contributes a rich, savory umami flavor with a smoother, less salty profile than traditional soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon white miso paste – adds depth and complexity, balancing the sweetness with subtle fermented notes
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced – infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic garlic flavor
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – brightens the sauce and balances the richness with fresh acidity
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt – enhances the overall seasoning and amplifies the savory elements
• Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional) – provides gentle heat to contrast the sweetness of the honey
• 2 cups chicken broth – forms the flavorful cooking liquid that allows the pasta to absorb the sauce as it cooks
• ½ cup full-fat coconut milk – creates a creamy, silky sauce while adding subtle coconut richness
• 8 ounces spaghetti, uncooked – serves as the base, absorbing the sauce as it cooks directly in the skillet
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – helps thicken the sauce to a smooth, glossy consistency
• 2 tablespoons water – used to create a slurry for even thickening
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty finish that balances the sweet and savory flavors
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – provides a fresh, herbaceous contrast and visual appeal
• Additional red pepper flakes (optional) – for finishing and added heat, if desired

How To Make Creamy Honey Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the honey, tamari, miso paste, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until the miso is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Set the sauce aside so the flavors can meld while you start the pasta.

Step 2: Heat the Cooking Liquid in a Skillet or Pan

Place a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. I had a simple pan hence I am using this.

Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk, stirring gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a soft boil, watching closely so it doesn’t bubble over. This flavorful liquid will cook the pasta and become the base of the sauce.

TIP: You can use pasta water if you don’t want to go with chicken broth. I would suggest not using vegetable broth.

Step 3: Put the Pasta Directly in the Skillet

Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan, fanning it out or breaking it in half if needed so it fits evenly. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the pasta simmer for some time until it’s evenly coated with the sauce.

Stir occasionally with tongs to separate the noodles and ensure they cook evenly as they absorb the liquid.

Step 4: Create the Slurry and Build the Sauce

While the pasta cooks, whisk the cornstarch and water together in a small bowl to form a smooth slurry. Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, pour the honey garlic sauce that you have created earlier into the pan. Immediately stir in the cornstarch slurry, mixing well so the sauce distributes evenly.

Step 5: Thicken and Coat the Pasta

Remove the lid and allow the pasta to simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently. During this time, the sauce will thicken and cling to the noodles, creating a glossy, slightly sticky finish. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent sticking or scorching.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss gently until the cheese melts into the sauce.

If you want, you can put the parmesan cheese later while serving just like I have done.

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra red pepper flakes if desired, then serve immediately while warm and creamy.