One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a recipe that has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth and comfort, whether you’re having a busy weeknight or planning an intimate dinner. The creamy texture combined with the rich flavor of garlic makes it feel indulgent, yet it comes together in just one pot! Trust me, once you taste this delightful dish, you’ll understand why so many home cooks are adding it to their go-to recipe list.
Reasons to try it
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. That makes it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s budget-friendly. With simple ingredients like pasta, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, you can whip up a gourmet meal without breaking the bank.
But here’s what really sets it apart: this dish is kid-approved! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing for the entire family. Not to mention, making it all in one pot means fewer dishes to clean afterward—a win-win in any household.
"This creamy garlic pasta has become a staple in our home! It’s so easy to make, and everyone loves it." – Sarah, satisfied home cook
The cooking process explained
Making One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is as straightforward as it is satisfying. You’ll start by sautéing fragrant garlic in olive oil, allowing its essence to infuse the dish. Next, you’ll add pasta and cover it with water, bringing everything to a boil. Once the pasta is just al dente, the magic happens when you stir in milk and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Follow through by seasoning to taste, and you’ve got yourself a delicious meal ready in one pot!
What you’ll need
To create this deliciously creamy pasta, gather these ingredients:
- Pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne all work well)
- Minced garlic
- Milk (whole or skim)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For a twist, you could use unleavened cream or even a non-dairy milk alternative depending on your dietary preferences.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the pasta along with enough water to fully cover it. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the milk.
- Cook until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
How to plate and pair
To serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta, twirl the pasta on a plate for a classic look, then drizzle a bit more olive oil on top for shine. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. As for side dishes, consider a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the meal. A slice of garlic bread would be delightful too!
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a little milk if the pasta seems dry. If you want to freeze any extras, do this before adding the cheese; it can change the texture. When ready to enjoy, reheat and stir in the cheese for that fresh, creamy finish!
Helpful cooking tips
A couple of tips can elevate your One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta experience. First, consider using fresh garlic over powdered garlic for an intense flavor burst. Also, remember not to overcook the pasta; this dish thrives on that perfect al dente texture that will soak up the creamy sauce nicely. Lastly, keep the heat low when adding the milk to prevent it from curdling—patience is key!
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Add some spinach or peas for a pop of color and nutrition. You could also toss in cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein. If you’re craving some heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will spice things up. And for those who love a bit of tang, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors beautifully.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25-30 minutes.
Can I substitute the milk?
Absolutely! You can use a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk, or even vegetable broth for a lighter option.
How do I ensure the pasta doesn’t stick together?
Stirring the pasta occasionally while it cooks will prevent it from sticking. Additionally, make sure to use enough water to cover the pasta during boiling.
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is not only a quick and easy dinner option but also a delicious way to bring comfort into your home. Dive into this recipe, and you’ll find that it’s bound to become a favorite in no time!
PrintOne Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
A quick and comforting one pot creamy garlic pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights or intimate dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 cups milk (whole or skim)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the pasta along with enough water to fully cover it. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the milk.
- Cook until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using fresh garlic, and don’t overcook the pasta for the best texture. Stir occasionally and watch the heat when adding milk to prevent curdling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
