If you are looking for a quick dinner that does not skimp on flavor, this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the ultimate solution. This dish combines a bold garlic aroma with a silky, velvety sauce to create a comforting meal that comes together in just 20 minutes. Best of all, it requires only one pot, making it the perfect weeknight staple for busy families or solo cooks.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to keep this recipe in your weekly rotation. First and foremost, the one-pot method means you will spend less time at the sink and more time enjoying your meal. It is incredibly budget-friendly, utilizing pantry staples like dried pasta and garlic that you likely already have on hand. The result is a high-quality, cheesy, and cozy pasta dish that tastes like it came from a professional kitchen but requires minimal effort and zero cooking confidence.
Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- 8 ounces of pasta such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne
- 1 tablespoon of butter or high-quality olive oil
- 4 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
- 2 cups of whole milk for a rich and creamy texture
- 1 cup of water or enough to just cover the dry noodles
- 3/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon of cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a blend of basil and oregano
- Optional: 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream for extra richness
- Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for a bright garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Garlic: Place a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the butter or olive oil and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes. Be careful to stir constantly so the garlic becomes fragrant without burning.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour the dry pasta directly into the pot. Add the milk and the water. The liquid should just barely cover the noodles. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the Pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the pasta uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes. It is important to stir frequently during this stage to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom and to ensure the milk creates a smooth sauce.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Once the pasta is al dente and the liquid has reduced into a thick, creamy consistency, stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you want an even creamier result, stir in the optional cream cheese or sour cream at this point.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from the heat. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve while the sauce is hot and glossy.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is perfect every time, consider these professional tips. If you are in a major rush, use thinner pasta shapes like angel hair, which cook significantly faster. You can also pre-warm your milk or water to help the pot reach a simmer more quickly. Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese if possible; pre-shredded varieties are often coated in potato starch, which can make your sauce slightly grainy rather than smooth. Finally, do not walk away from the stove—stirring is essential in one-pot pasta recipes to release the starches that thicken the sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe serves as a fantastic blank canvas for your favorite additions. For protein, you can fold in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits. If you want to add some greens, stir in a handful of baby spinach or frozen peas during the last two minutes of cooking. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of Cajun seasoning can transform the flavor profile entirely. You can also swap the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Fontina for a different cheesy twist.
Serving Suggestions
While this pasta is a complete meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the garlic cream sauce. You might also serve it alongside roasted broccoli or asparagus. If you want to go all-in on the garlic theme, a side of warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, reheat the pasta on the stove or in the microwave. Because the pasta will continue to absorb the sauce as it sits, add a splash of milk or water before reheating to restore the creamy consistency. Please note that freezing is not recommended for this recipe, as dairy-based sauces often separate and lose their texture when thawed.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the butter or olive oil and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly.1 tablespoon butter or high-quality olive oil, 4 cloves fresh garlic
- Pour the dry pasta directly into the pot. Add the milk and the water. The liquid should just barely cover the noodles. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.8 ounces pasta, 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup water
- Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the pasta uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir frequently during this stage to prevent the noodles from sticking and to ensure the milk creates a smooth sauce.
- Once the pasta is al dente and the liquid has reduced into a thick, creamy consistency, stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the optional cream cheese or sour cream at this point if desired.3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream
- Remove the pot from the heat. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve while the sauce is hot and glossy.Fresh parsley or basil
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skim milk for this recipe?
You can use any milk you have on hand, but whole milk provides the creamiest results. If you use skim milk, the sauce will be thinner and less rich.
What happens if the liquid evaporates before the pasta is cooked?
If the pasta is still firm but the liquid is gone, simply add a small splash of extra water or milk and continue simmering until the noodles reach your desired tenderness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make this gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to monitor the cook time closely, as gluten-free varieties can sometimes become mushy more quickly than wheat pasta.
How do I make the garlic flavor even stronger?
For a massive garlic punch, you can increase the number of cloves or add a half-teaspoon of garlic powder along with the Italian seasoning at the end of the cooking process.