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); 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any type 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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Introduction

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it delivers rich, cheesy flavors and a velvety texture that everyone will enjoy.

A white plate filled with creamy pasta made of tubular penne noodles coated in a smooth, pale yellow cheese sauce, sprinkled with small green herb bits and red chili flakes. On top, there are two thin slices of light yellow cheese and a small sprig of fresh green parsley in the center. The pasta looks rich and slightly glossy with a soft texture. Around the plate on the white marbled surface, some scattered herbs and chili flakes add detail. 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 use 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 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 avoid burning.
Step 2: Pour in 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 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: Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For an extra creamy sauce, stir in cream cheese or sour cream if using.
Step 5: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting.
For a richer sauce, add cream cheese or sour cream as suggested.
Feel free to add cooked chicken, mushrooms, or spinach for extra protein and veggies.
If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a little more milk or water to loosen it up.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

A white round plate holds creamy penne pasta coated in a smooth, light beige sauce. The pasta is sprinkled with finely grated cheese and small bits of herbs, adding green specks throughout. On top, there are three thin, pale yellow cheese slices and a small bunch of fresh green parsley for garnish. Red chili flakes and black pepper are lightly scattered over the dish and around the plate. The plate is set 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, any shape works, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta used.

Is this recipe suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals?

This recipe uses dairy products like milk and Parmesan cheese. To make it lactose-free, substitute with lactose-free milk and vegan cheese alternatives.