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One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 146 reviews

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that combines al dente pasta with a rich, creamy garlic sauce made from milk, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic seasonings. With minimal cleanup and customizable ingredients, this comforting dish is perfect for any pasta lover seeking a flavorful and creamy meal in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary 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

Optional Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
  • Chopped parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté Garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned to prevent bitterness.
  2. Add Pasta & Liquid: Add the dry pasta to the pot, then pour in the milk and enough water to barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Continue cooking for 8 to 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced into a creamy sauce.
  4. Stir in Cheese & Seasoning: Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir thoroughly until the cheese melts into the sauce and it thickens. For an even creamier texture, fold in cream cheese or sour cream at this stage.
  5. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use whole milk for a richer and creamier sauce, but low-fat milk can be substituted for a lighter version.
  • Adjust water quantity to ensure the pasta is just covered; too much water will make the sauce thinner.
  • Stir frequently during cooking to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  • For a vegetarian version, ensure the Parmesan cheese used is vegetarian-friendly or substitute with nutritional yeast.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Keywords: One Pot Pasta, Creamy Garlic Pasta, Easy Pasta Recipe, Quick Dinner, Italian Pasta, Weeknight Meal

Find it online: https://nayabaker.com/one-pot-creamy-garlic-pasta-recipe/