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One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the kind of simple, satisfying meal that never goes out of style. Made with everyday pantry staples and cooked entirely in one pot, this creamy pasta recipe delivers rich flavor with minimal cleanup. It is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners at home, or anytime you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is how the pasta cooks directly in milk and water, absorbing flavor as it simmers. The result is a velvety garlic-infused sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. With the option to customize it using different pasta shapes, cheeses, or add-ins, this dish is both flexible and budget-friendly.
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If you are searching for a one pot pasta recipe that is creamy, flavorful, and beginner-friendly, this garlic pasta is a dependable go-to that delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made in one pot for easy cleanup
- Creamy texture without heavy cream
- Rich garlic flavor using simple ingredients
- Ready in about 20 minutes
- Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
- Budget-conscious and pantry-based
- Easy to customize with proteins or vegetables
Ingredients Breakdown
• Pasta – Acts as the base of the dish and absorbs flavor as it cooks. Spaghetti, linguine, or penne all work well, depending on whether you prefer long strands or bite-sized pasta.
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• Butter or Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic. Butter provides a slightly creamier flavor, while olive oil offers a lighter, Mediterranean-style taste.
• Garlic – Brings bold, aromatic flavor to the dish. Freshly minced garlic works best, and cooking it gently prevents bitterness.
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• Milk – Forms the base of the creamy sauce. Whole milk creates the richest texture, but low-fat milk can be used with slightly less creaminess.
• Water – Helps cook the pasta evenly and prevents the sauce from becoming too thick too quickly. Use just enough to barely cover the pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory depth and thickens the sauce naturally. Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances the creaminess. Adjust to taste, especially after adding cheese.
• Black Pepper – Adds subtle warmth and contrast to the creamy sauce. Freshly cracked pepper gives the best flavor.
• Italian Seasoning – Brings herbal notes that complement the garlic and cheese. A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme works perfectly.
• Cream Cheese or Sour Cream (Optional) – Adds extra richness and a silkier texture. This is ideal if you prefer an ultra-creamy pasta.
• Fresh Herbs (Optional) – Parsley or basil adds color and freshness, balancing the richness of the dish.
Tips and Tricks for Best Results
- Stir frequently to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom
- Keep heat at a gentle simmer to avoid scorching the milk
- Add water gradually if sauce thickens too quickly
- Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting
- Remove from heat before sauce is fully thick; it will continue to set
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end for best balance
Variations and Customizations
This one pot creamy garlic pasta is easy to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or rotisserie chicken for protein
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for vegetables
- Use gluten-free pasta with additional liquid and stirring
- Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for sharper flavor
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Finish with lemon zest for brightness
Pairing Suggestions
Side Dishes
- Garlic bread or crusty bread
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini
Drinks
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Iced tea
- Light white wine for adults
Occasions
- Quick weeknight dinners
- Meatless Monday meals
- Casual family gatherings
- Cozy comfort-food nights
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk
- Stir well while reheating to restore creaminess
- Freezing is not recommended, as milk-based sauces may separate
Popular Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, short or long pasta shapes work well. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness.
Does this recipe need heavy cream?
No, milk and Parmesan create a creamy sauce without heavy cream. Optional cream cheese adds richness if desired.
Why did my sauce turn too thick?
The sauce thickens as it cools. Add a splash of milk or water and stir gently to loosen it.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can use unsweetened plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese, but flavor and texture may vary.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is mild, creamy, and comforting, making it popular with kids and adults alike.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the butter or olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to barely cover the pasta.
- Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Cook until the pasta is al dente and the liquid reduces into a creamy sauce.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the cream cheese or sour cream if using, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat once the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Notes
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