One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and comforting meal that combines tender pasta with a rich, garlicky sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it requires minimal cleanup and delivers big flavor with simple ingredients.

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 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: Add the dry pasta to the pot along with the milk and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Step 3: Reduce the 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 a richer sauce, mix in cream cheese or sour cream at this point.
5. Step 5: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired, and serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

• Use cream cheese or sour cream to add extra richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Swap Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Try adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables for a more substantial meal.
• Make sure to stir frequently while simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot.

Storage

Store any 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 to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

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 various types of pasta like spaghetti, linguine, penne, or even fusilli. Just ensure the pasta is fully covered with liquid to cook evenly.

What milk can I use if I don’t have whole milk?

You can use any milk you have on hand, such as 2%, skim, or plant-based milk. Whole milk adds the richest flavor and creaminess, but others will work with slightly different results.

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 73 reviews

• Author: Victor
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy garlic-infused sauce. Using just one pot, this recipe saves time and clean-up while delivering comforting Italian flavors perfect for a weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base 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 milk you have)
• 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 Extras

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

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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 everything together and bring to a gentle boil on medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered. Stir frequently for 8–10 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced, forming a creamy sauce.
4. Stir in Cheese & Seasoning: Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. If desired, stir in cream cheese or sour cream for extra richness and creaminess.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve hot immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Use whole milk for creamier texture, but any milk can work.
• Adjust water quantity to ensure pasta is just covered; too much liquid will make sauce thin.
• Stir frequently while cooking pasta to prevent sticking.
• For a dairy-free alternative, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese substitutes.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; add a splash of milk when reheating to loosen sauce.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: one pot pasta, creamy garlic pasta, easy dinner, Italian pasta recipe, stovetop pasta, weeknight dinner