Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne); 2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any milk you have); 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta); 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess); Chopped parsley or basil for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, effortless meal that feels indulgent yet comes together in a flash, this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pasta bathed in a luxuriously creamy garlic sauce, all made in a single pot to save you time and dishes. It’s a harmony of flavors and textures that’s simple to prepare but impressive enough to make this recipe a fast favorite in your kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta promises to satisfy every time.

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each selected to bring out the perfect balance of creaminess, flavor, and aroma. From the fragrant garlic that forms the base to the rich Parmesan cheese that adds depth, every element plays a key role in crafting the perfect creamy garlic pasta.

8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne): Choose your favorite shape as all absorb the sauce beautifully and cook evenly in one pot.
1 tablespoon butter or olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for sautéing garlic and enhances richness.
4 cloves garlic (minced): The star of this dish, offering an irresistible aroma and bold flavor.
2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any you have): Creates the creamy texture that makes this pasta so comforting.
1 cup water (or as needed): Helps to cook the pasta gently and thin the sauce to just the right consistency.
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, savory notes and melts down for a silky finish.
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Brings all the flavors together perfectly.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of spice that balances the dish.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the pasta with a fragrant mix of herbs for a classic flavor boost.
Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream: Stir in for an extra creamy, luscious sauce.
Optional garnish: Chopped parsley or basil: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by melting the butter or heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it gently for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep it moving with a spoon to avoid burning—this step releases that wonderful garlic aroma that sets the tone for the entire dish.

Step 2: Add Pasta and Liquids

Next, pour in your dry pasta along with the milk and just enough water to barely cover the pasta. This combination might seem unusual at first, but it’s the secret that allows the pasta to cook right in the creamy sauce from start to finish. Give everything a good stir to combine, then bring it up to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Simmered

Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and leave the pot uncovered. Stir the pasta frequently while it cooks for about 8 to 10 minutes. As the pasta softens, most of the liquid reduces, thickening into a rich and creamy sauce. Keep a close eye to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Seasonings

When the pasta is perfectly al dente, sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir immediately so the cheese melts evenly and the sauce thickens further. For those who crave extra creaminess, this is the moment to fold in cream cheese or sour cream, turning the sauce into an indulgent velvet blanket for your noodles.

Step 5: Serve While It’s Hot

Finally, ladle this luscious pasta into bowls or plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. The vivid green herbs bring a fresh brightness that pairs beautifully with the creamy garlic flavors. Serve it right away to enjoy that wonderfully smooth texture and comforting warmth.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil brighten the dish and add a hint of freshness that cuts through the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also bring an exciting finishing touch, depending on your mood.

Side Dishes

Light, crisp sides complement the richness of this pasta perfectly. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli create a balanced meal. Crusty bread is also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or special occasion, serve the pasta in individual bowls garnished with edible flowers or microgreens for a fancy touch. You could even add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms to personalize the meal and add some protein or earthiness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. The sauce might thicken and the pasta absorb some liquid over time, so it’s best enjoyed within a couple of days for optimal creaminess.

Freezing

While this pasta is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in portioned containers for up to a month. Keep in mind that pasta texture can change slightly after freezing and thawing, so it’s perfect for a quick meal but not quite the same as freshly made.

Reheating

When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce as it warms. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to keep the texture smooth and prevent sticking or drying out. This helps revive that luscious creaminess you loved at first bite.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti, linguine, or penne work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with farfalle, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni. Just adjust the liquid amounts if needed to ensure the pasta is covered during cooking.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based milk alternatives like almond or oat milk and choose vegan butter and cheese substitutes. The flavor will be slightly different but still deliciously creamy and satisfying.

Can I add vegetables or proteins to the pasta?

Definitely! You can stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes along with proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to make this meal heartier and more colorful.

What if my sauce is too thin or too thick?

If the sauce is too thin, simply continue to simmer uncovered to reduce it further. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk or water, stirring gently until you reach your desired texture.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Keep the heat on medium to medium-low and stir constantly while sautéing the minced garlic. Burnt garlic turns bitter, which can overwhelm the dish, so watch it carefully until it just becomes fragrant and slightly golden.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a delightful, fuss-free meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I encourage you to give it a try — it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a favorite because it’s simple to make, deeply satisfying, and just plain delicious. Cooking it in one pot means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal and the company around you. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 25 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Made in just 20 minutes, it combines tender pasta with a luscious garlic-infused creamy sauce enhanced by Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. This dish requires minimal cleanup and can be customized with optional cream cheese or sour cream for extra richness, topped with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.

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 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Add Pasta & Liquid: Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8–10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce.
Stir in Cheese & Seasoning: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For an extra creamy result, stir in the cream cheese or sour cream until fully incorporated.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve the pasta immediately while hot.

Notes

Use whole milk for a creamier sauce, but any milk will work.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or milk to adjust consistency.
Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cheese with suitable plant-based alternatives and use olive oil instead of butter.
Adjust seasoning to your taste preference by adding more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: One-Pot Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American