One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a rich, creamy pasta full of garlic flavor without the hassle of multiple pots.

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 for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
2. Step 2: Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Step 3: Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8–10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce.
4. Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For extra creaminess, mix in the optional cream cheese or sour cream.
5. Step 5: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream. You can also swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
• Feel free to add cooked vegetables or grilled chicken to make the dish more filling.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the liquid slightly or cook a few minutes longer.
• Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free version.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of 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 a different type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with spaghetti, linguine, penne, or other similar pasta shapes. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

Do I have to use cream cheese or sour cream?

No, the cream cheese or sour cream is optional and only added for extra creaminess. The pasta will still be delicious and creamy without it.

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.8 from 90 reviews

• Author: Andria
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and comforting Italian-inspired dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. It features tender pasta cooked directly in a flavorful garlic-infused milk sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning for a rich, creamy texture without the hassle of multiple pots.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Liquid Ingredients

• 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred, or any available)
• 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta)

Seasonings & Cheese

• 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. Sauté Garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
2. Add Pasta & Liquid: Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine everything then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 8–10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced, creating a creamy sauce.
4. Stir in Cheese & Seasoning: Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For extra creaminess, fold in cream cheese or sour cream at this stage.
5. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve the pasta immediately while still hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Use whole milk for a creamier sauce, but any milk works.
• Stir frequently during cooking to prevent pasta from sticking and burning.
• Adjust salt according to taste, especially if using salted butter or Parmesan cheese.
• For a richer dish, cream cheese or sour cream can be added as optional ingredients.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a burst of color and freshness as garnish.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

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