One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and comforting dinner made with tender pasta, garlic, milk, and Parmesan cheese all cooked together in one pan for a rich and creamy sauce.
Equipment
- large pot or deep skillet
- wooden spoon
- measuring cups and spoons
- cheese grater
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta spaghetti, linguine, or penne
- 1 tbsp 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 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp cream cheese or sour cream (optional)
- chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 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 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
- 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.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Stir in cream cheese or sour cream if using.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
For extra creaminess, stir in cream cheese or sour cream at the end of cooking. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.