One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, deliciously creamy meal that comes together with minimal fuss, you’re going to adore this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta. This dish perfectly balances tender pasta with a luscious, garlicky sauce that clings to every bite, offering rich flavors and a velvety texture that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe delivers big on taste with just one pot and a handful of simple ingredients, making cleanup just as easy as the cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta plays a crucial role in building the flavor, texture, and color. They’re simple staples but work harmoniously to create a dish that feels indulgent and satisfying.

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne): Choose your favorite shape, but note that thinner pastas cook faster and soak up the sauce beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil: Adds richness and helps infuse the garlic flavor right from the start.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): The star ingredient for that irresistible garlicky punch.
• 2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any milk you have): Creates the creamy base of the sauce, making it smooth and dreamy.
• 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta): Ensures the pasta cooks perfectly and helps form that silky sauce.
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and depth while thickening the sauce to perfection.
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors so nothing tastes flat.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Just a touch to add a mild kick without overpowering the creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a lovely blend of herbs that elevate the garlic sauce beautifully.
• Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream: For an extra creamy, velvety texture that feels indulgent.
• Optional: garnish chopped parsley or basil: A fresh burst of color and herbaceous brightness to finish off.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by melting butter or heating olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This step releases the garlic’s wonderful aroma and sets the foundation for the sauce’s fantastic flavor.

Step 2: Add Pasta and Liquid

Next, pour in the dry pasta, followed by the milk and enough water just to cover the pasta. Give everything a good stir to combine. Then, bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This method cooks the pasta right in the sauce, allowing it to absorb all those creamy, garlicky flavors from the start.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the pasta cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently—that’s key to preventing the pasta from sticking as it yields to a perfect al dente texture. You’ll notice the liquid gradually reduces, magically transforming into a creamy sauce that envelops every strand or bite of pasta.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Seasoning

Once the pasta is tender and the sauce is thick and creamy, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you’re looking for even more richness, now’s the time to add cream cheese or sour cream. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens beautifully, creating that classic comforting texture so many crave.

Step 5: Serve the Pasta

Finally, sprinkle the pasta with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a vibrant and fresh finish. Serve the One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta immediately while it’s hot to enjoy the sauce at its best – velvety, rich, and bursting with garlicky goodness.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like fresh chopped parsley or basil brighten the dish both visually and in flavor, adding a hint of herbaceous freshness that balances the creamy sauce. A little cracked black pepper or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan can also create a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This creamy Italian-inspired pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. The contrast of crunchy and fresh sides adds texture and lifts the whole meal, making it a feast that’s as balanced on the plate as it is satisfying in your belly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta in hollowed-out bread bowls or topped with grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for added protein and earthiness. You can also mix in roasted cherry tomatoes for bursts of sweetness that perfectly complement the creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers of the One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen as they rest, so it’s perfect for packing lunch or reheating for a quick dinner the next day.

Freezing

While freezing creamy pasta dishes can sometimes affect texture, you can freeze this pasta by placing it in a freezer-safe container. Use within 1 to 2 months for best taste. When thawing, do so gently in the refrigerator and be prepared to add a splash of milk while reheating to restore that creamy consistency.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring often. If the sauce has thickened too much, simply add a little milk or water to loosen it back up and keep that luscious creaminess alive.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti, linguine, or penne work beautifully in this dish, feel free to experiment with fusilli, farfalle, or any pasta shape you love. Just keep an eye on cooking times as thicker or smaller shapes may need adjustments.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use a vegan butter alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep a cheesy flavor, and skip cream cheese or sour cream or swap with a plant-based version for a creamy, dairy-free delight.

Can I add vegetables or protein to the pasta?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or cooked chicken or shrimp make excellent additions, adding extra nutrition and variety. Just add them toward the end of cooking or on top when serving.

How do I avoid the pasta sticking together while cooking?

Stirring the pasta frequently as it simmers in the liquid is crucial. This prevents sticking and ensures the pasta cooks evenly while the sauce thickens beautifully around it.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

You can easily make your own blend using dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This mix will bring an authentic herbaceous note to the pasta without needing a pre-made blend.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a must-try for anyone who loves quick, comforting, and flavorful meals that don’t require a dozen pots and pans. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate and an ideal weeknight dinner when you want to treat yourself without complicating your evening. Trust me, once you try it, this creamy garlicky delight will be on heavy rotation in your kitchen!

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