Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne); 2 cups whole milk (or any milk you have); 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta); 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess); Chopped parsley or basil for garnish

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Introduction

This one pot creamy garlic pasta is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. With rich garlic flavor and a luscious cheesy sauce, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying dish.

A white round plate holds a single layer of creamy penne pasta, coated thickly with a smooth, white cheese sauce. The pasta is sprinkled generously with finely grated cheese that looks soft and crumbly, along with small bits of leafy green herbs scattered unevenly across the top. Tiny red chili flakes and crushed black pepper are scattered on and around the pasta, adding texture and color contrast. The white marbled surface beneath adds a clean and bright look to the presentation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 with chopped parsley or basil

Instructions

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.
Step 2: Add the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
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.
Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For an extra creamy texture, add cream cheese or sour cream and mix well.
Step 5: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

Use whole milk for a richer sauce or substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Try adding cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
For a protein boost, stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon before serving.
To prevent the pasta from sticking, stir frequently during cooking and use enough liquid to keep it moist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white plate filled with creamy penne pasta layered with a smooth white sauce coating each piece. The pasta is topped with grated white cheese and sprinkled with green fresh basil leaves and small bits of red chili flakes, adding texture and color contrast. There is a light dusting of black pepper scattered around, enhancing the look. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with various pasta shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure it reaches al dente.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely. Use olive oil instead of butter, plant-based milk, dairy-free cheese alternatives, and skip the cream cheese or sour cream or use vegan versions. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.