Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
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); 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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If you are craving a comforting yet effortless meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta. This dish combines tender pasta cooked right in a luscious garlic-infused creamy sauce that clings beautifully to every strand or bite. It’s a simple recipe that uses straightforward ingredients but delivers an incredibly rich, flavorful experience with minimal fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen, this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is destined to become one of your go-to favorites.

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is essential and thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. These simple components work together to build a creamy, garlicky sauce that coats the pasta beautifully while adding depth and freshness to every bite.

8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne): Choose your favorite shape to soak up the creamy sauce—long noodles or tubes both work wonderfully.
1 tablespoon butter or olive oil: Adds a silky base for sautéing garlic and enriches the flavor of the whole dish.
4 cloves garlic (minced): The star ingredient, providing that irresistible, aromatic punch we all love in garlic pasta.
2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any you have): Creates the rich and creamy texture that makes this pasta dreamily smooth.
1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta): Helps cook the pasta perfectly while blending with milk to form the sauce.
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty and salty depth that’s essential in creamy pasta sauces.
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Brings all the flavors together, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little bite that complements the creamy garlic beautifully.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that lifts the sauce with fragrant hints of oregano, basil, and thyme.
Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream: For those who want to take the creaminess up a notch to velvet levels.
Optional: garnish chopped parsley or basil: A fresh, herbaceous touch that brightens the presentation and flavor.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by melting the butter or heating olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once warm, add the minced garlic and sauté for just 1 to 2 minutes until the aroma fills your kitchen. It’s important to keep stirring and watch carefully to prevent burning since garlic can go from fragrant to bitter very fast.

Step 2: Add Pasta and Liquids

Next, pour in your dry pasta along with the milk and just enough water to barely cover the pasta. This combination helps the pasta cook evenly and lets the sauce start forming as the liquid reduces. Give everything a good stir to make sure the pasta is submerged and the garlic is evenly mixed.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Keep the pot uncovered and stir frequently for about 8 to 10 minutes. Patience here pays off because you want the pasta to cook al dente while most of the liquid evaporates, transforming into a naturally creamy sauce that clings to the noodles.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Seasoning

Once the pasta is perfectly tender and the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened, add in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes richer. If you’re craving an extra indulgent texture, fold in the cream cheese or sour cream at this stage for an ultra-smooth finish.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Remove the pot from heat and dish up your luscious pasta. The sauce will be warm, glossy, and irresistibly creamy, capturing all the garlicky goodness.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil are perfect to sprinkle on top just before serving. They add a lovely pop of color and a fresh note that balances the richness of the sauce beautifully. You can also add a little extra Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Side Dishes

This one pot creamy garlic pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp side salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess nicely. Roasted asparagus or green beans work just as well for a vibrant, well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the pasta in individual bowls topped with a drizzle of olive oil and a few toasted pine nuts for crunch. Alternatively, plate it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein and make it a more substantial dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this wonderful One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining most of its creamy texture with a quick reheat.

Freezing

While freezing creamy pasta can sometimes affect its texture, if you want to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container and use within 1 to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers slowly on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta heats evenly while regaining its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti, linguine, or penne are excellent choices, feel free to use whatever pasta you have handy. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the shape and thickness.

Is it necessary to use whole milk?

Whole milk is preferred because it lends the richest, creamiest texture, but you can substitute with any milk type you have, including lower fat versions. Just expect a slightly less creamy sauce.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, swap butter for olive oil, use a plant-based milk, and substitute Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast. It will still be delicious but with a different flavor profile.

Why do you add water in addition to milk?

The water helps the pasta cook evenly and balances the thickness of the sauce as the milk alone might become too rich or curdle if overheated during the cooking.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms are fantastic additions. You can stir them in at the end or serve on the side to make your meal heartier.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about a big bowl of One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta that nourishes both the body and soul. With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, this recipe invites you to enjoy a gourmet-feeling meal without the fuss. I hope you find as much joy in making and eating this dish as I do sharing it with friends and family. So grab a pot, whip up this creamy garlic dream, and savor every bite!

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 23 reviews

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

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Description

A simple and delicious one pot creamy garlic pasta recipe that combines tender pasta with a rich, cheesy garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish uses minimal ingredients and cooks all in one pot for easy cleanup. The creamy sauce is made with garlic, Parmesan cheese, milk, and optional cream cheese or sour cream for extra richness, garnished with fresh herbs.

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 enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8–10 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to form a creamy sauce.
Stir in Cheese & Seasoning: Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir continuously until the cheese melts fully and the sauce thickens. For an extra creamy texture, mix in cream cheese or sour cream at this point.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired, and serve immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use whole milk for a richer and creamier sauce, but any milk works.
Adjust salt and seasoning to taste as Parmesan cheese adds some saltiness.
Stir frequently while cooking pasta to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese substitutes.
This recipe is easily doubled to serve more people; just use a larger pot and adjust liquid accordingly.

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