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ONE POT CREAMY GARLIC PASTA centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Joe Rooney

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe Easy to Make

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the ultimate 20-minute comfort food that's rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for anyone looking for an effortless dinner option, this Easy One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta uses simple ingredients like garlic, milk, and Parmesan cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 430
Ingredients Method Notes

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
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
  • Optional: garnish Chopped parsley or basil

Method
 

  1. In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter or heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  3. Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just barely cover the pasta.
  4. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8–10 minutes or until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
  7. For extra creaminess, stir in cream cheese or sour cream if using.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables to make it a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.