When I first stumbled upon this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe, I was immediately drawn to its simplicity and comforting flavors. Life can sometimes be hectic, and this dish has become a go-to for weeknight dinners and lazy Sundays alike. With its rich, creamy sauce and a delightful punch of garlic, it’s a dish that warms both the heart and the belly. Plus, who doesn’t love the convenience of a one-pot meal?

Why you’ll love this dish

There are plenty of reasons to give One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta a try. For starters, it’s quick and easy, requiring minimal prep and clean-up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers. It’s also incredibly budget-friendly, utilizing just a handful of ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. This dish is not only kid-approved but also has the versatility to impress your dinner guests!

“This was a lifesaver on a hectic weeknight. It came together so quickly, and my kids devoured every last bit!”

The cooking process explained

Preparing One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is as easy as 1-2-3! You’ll start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, which releases its aromatic goodness. Next, you’ll add pasta and milk to the mix, letting them simmer harmoniously until the pasta absorbs that creamy flavor. Finally, a sprinkling of Parmesan brings everything together, resulting in a luscious dish that requires barely any effort. Let’s dive into the details!

What you’ll need

To whip up this delightful pasta, gather the following ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (any type you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start—it helps the cooking process go smoothly. You can substitute the pasta with whole grain or gluten-free varieties if needed.

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the pasta and milk, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Stir occasionally and cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
6. Once cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
7. Serve hot, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color.

Best ways to enjoy it

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a meal in itself, but there are a few sides that complement it perfectly. Consider a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce. For a heartier option, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp would add a protein boost while enhancing the flavors.

Storage and reheating tips

Storing your leftover One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is straightforward. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore some of the creaminess if needed. If you want to save it for longer, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months—just be aware that the texture might change slightly once thawed.

Helpful cooking tips

For the best results when making this dish, consider the following tips:

• Make sure not to overcook the garlic; it should be lightly golden and fragrant, not browned or burnt.
• Experiment with different pasta shapes; penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti can work beautifully.
• Don’t forget the seasoning! Adjusting the salt and pepper allows you to cater the flavor to your liking.

Recipe variations

There’s no limit to how you can make this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta your own! Try incorporating veggies like spinach or peas for added color and nutrition. You can also switch up the cheese—try using mozzarella for a gooey, melty texture or a sprinkle of feta for a tangy twist. For spice lovers, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick.

Common questions

How long does it take to make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta?

This dish takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish, making it a great choice for quick dinners.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute almond milk, soy milk, or even a low-fat version; just be mindful that it might alter the creaminess of the sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For freezing, place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months.

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. It checks all the boxes for ease, flavor, and satisfaction. Enjoy!

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

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A quick and easy one-pot pasta dish with a rich, creamy garlic sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

• 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

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz pasta (any type you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the pasta and milk, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Stir occasionally and cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
7. Serve hot, finishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the garlic; it should be lightly golden. You can substitute the pasta with whole grain or gluten-free varieties if needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 17g
• Cholesterol: 30mg