Description
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and comforting Italian-inspired dinner made in just 20 minutes. Combining garlic, milk, Parmesan cheese, and simple seasonings, it delivers a rich and creamy texture without the fuss. Perfect for a hassle-free meal that requires minimal cleanup, this versatile recipe can be customized with your favorite protein or vegetables to suit any palate.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred, or any milk 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
- Sauté Garlic: 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 to 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add Pasta & Liquid: Pour in the dry pasta, followed by the milk and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir everything to combine, then bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to create a creamy sauce.
- Stir in Cheese & Seasoning: Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For an extra creamy texture, gently stir in cream cheese or sour cream at this stage.
- Serve: Garnish the pasta with chopped parsley or basil as desired and serve immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables can turn this into a more complete meal.
- Stir frequently while cooking pasta in liquid to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or water to adjust consistency.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor results compared to pre-grated cheese.
