Why Make This Recipe
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without the fuss. This recipe is a simple way to enjoy creamy, garlicky pasta without having to wash multiple pots and pans. It combines fresh ingredients into a rich, satisfying dish that everyone will love. Plus, it only takes a short time to make, so you can spend more time with family or friends and less time in the kitchen!
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any available)
- 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream
- Optional: garnish with chopped parsley or basil
Directions:
- 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 to 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For an extra creamy sauce, stir in cream cheese or sour cream.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Serve this delicious pasta with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy date night at home. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for that cheesy goodness!
How to Store One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little milk to loosen up the sauce if needed.
Tips to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Make sure to stir the pasta frequently while it’s cooking to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference – more for garlic lovers!
- For a little kick, you can add red pepper flakes while cooking.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms while cooking. Protein options such as grilled chicken or shrimp can also be added for a heartier meal.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with any other hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and creamy garlic pasta dish made in one pot, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any available)
- 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream
- Optional: garnish with chopped parsley or basil
Instructions
- Melt the butter (or heat the olive oil) over medium heat in a large pot or deep skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For an extra creamy sauce, stir in cream cheese or sour cream.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Stir the pasta frequently to prevent sticking. Customize with veggies or protein as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian