Description
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a rich, comforting 20-minute dinner made in a single pan with garlic, milk, and Parmesan cheese. It’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk (whole preferred)
- 1 cup water, or enough 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 for extra creaminess
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or basil
Instructions
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 so it doesn’t burn.
2. Add the dry pasta to the pot along with the milk and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced into a creamy sauce.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
6. If you want extra creaminess, stir in the cream cheese or sour cream until fully incorporated.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor.
Stir the pasta frequently while cooking to prevent sticking and help create a creamy sauce.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or water to loosen it.
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli to turn this into a heartier meal.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 35mg