One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender pasta with a rich, garlicky sauce that’s both comforting and easy to make. With just one pot to clean, dinner has never been simpler.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups milk (whole preferred, or use any you have)
• 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta)
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
• Optional: garnish chopped parsley or basil

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
2. Step 2: Add the pasta to the pot, then pour in the milk and water. Make sure the liquid just covers the pasta. Stir in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Step 3: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring frequently, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. If using, add cream cheese or sour cream to enhance creaminess and stir until smooth.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley or basil if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole milk or add cream cheese for a richer sauce, but low-fat milk can also work for a lighter version.
• For a protein boost, stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms before serving.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen it up.
• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a bright freshness when sprinkled on top just before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with spaghetti, linguine, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta type.

Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?

Parmesan adds a distinctive nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese if desired.

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 125 reviews

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Made with simple ingredients like garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning, it delivers rich, creamy flavor without the hassle of multiple pots. Enjoy a delicious, creamy pasta dish ready in under 30 minutes using a single pot for easy cleanup.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups whole milk (or any milk you have)
• 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta)
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Optional Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
• Chopped parsley or basil (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pot: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat until melted and fragrant.
2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is soft and aromatic but not browned.
3. Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the milk and water, then add the pasta making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Increase the heat to medium-high to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Cook Pasta: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta simmer uncovered. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, approximately 10-12 minutes depending on pasta shape and size.
5. Season and Add Cheese: Stir in the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and optional cream cheese or sour cream if using. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
6. Finalize and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired, and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Use whole milk for a richer and creamier sauce; low-fat milk works but will be less creamy.
• Adjust water quantity to ensure pasta is just covered; too much water will make the sauce thinner.
• Stirring frequently is important to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot.
• Parmesan cheese should be freshly grated for best flavor and texture.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Keywords: creamy garlic pasta, one pot pasta, quick pasta dinner, easy pasta recipe, garlic Parmesan pasta