Description
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and delicious meal ready in just 20 minutes. Combining tender pasta, a rich garlic-infused creamy sauce, and savory Parmesan cheese, this easy recipe requires minimal cleanup and is perfect for busy weeknights or simple dinners. Optional additions like cream cheese or sour cream enhance the creaminess, while fresh herbs add a bright finish.
Ingredients
Main 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 Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- Chopped parsley or basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- 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.
- Add Pasta & Liquid: Pour in the dry pasta, then add the milk and just enough water to barely cover the pasta. Stir everything to combine.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then lower the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently for 8–10 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced into a creamy sauce.
- Stir in Cheese & Seasoning: Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For extra creaminess, stir in cream cheese or sour cream at this stage.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Stir frequently during simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Use whole milk for a richer, creamier sauce, but any milk works.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste; add more salt or pepper if desired.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and use a vegan cheese alternative.
- This recipe works well with various pasta shapes; adjust liquid slightly if using thicker pasta.
