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One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Caroline

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

This one pot creamy garlic pasta is rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. The pasta cooks directly in milk and water, creating a silky garlic-Parmesan sauce with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup water, or as needed to cover pasta
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp salt, or to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese or sour cream (optional)
  • chopped parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • large pot or deep skillet
  • wooden spoon or spatula
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat the butter or olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, until fragrant.
  3. Add the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to barely cover the pasta.
  4. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes.
  6. Cook until the pasta is al dente and the liquid reduces into a creamy sauce.
  7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  8. Add the cream cheese or sour cream if using, stirring until smooth.
  9. Remove from heat once the sauce thickens to your liking.
  10. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Notes

The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so serve immediately for the best texture. For leftovers, add a splash of milk when reheating. Fresh garlic provides the best flavor—avoid jarred garlic if possible. This recipe works well as a base for adding proteins or vegetables.