One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

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:

  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 to 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  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. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

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.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
one pot creamy garlic pasta 2026 02 02 195150 1024x683 2

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: hailey-carter
  • 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

  1. 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.
  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. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star