Description
This one-pot creamy garlic pasta is the ultimate quick comfort food. With rich, silky sauce and fragrant garlic butter, it’s an easy weeknight meal that tastes like something from your favorite Italian restaurant. Made in just one pot and ready in under 25 minutes — minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
Ingredients
8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine – uncooked)
3 tbsp butter or olive oil (or a mix of both for the best flavor)
5 cloves garlic, minced (fresh for maximum flavor)
2½ cups whole milk (or 2% for a lighter version)
½ cup water (adjust as needed)
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet or pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring, until fragrant but not browned.
Add pasta and liquid: Pour in milk and water, then add the pasta. Stir in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Simmer: Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente (10–12 minutes).
Add cheese: Lower the heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and cream cheese (if using). Mix until melted and creamy.
Adjust and serve: Taste and season as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve immediately.
Notes
Make it extra creamy: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream before serving.
Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon bits.
Vegan option: Use olive oil, oat milk, and vegan Parmesan.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.
Serving tip: Perfect with garlic bread or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner /Pasta
- Method: One-Pot Stovetop
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (~1¼ cups)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: one-pot creamy garlic pasta, easy pasta dinner, creamy garlic noodles, one-pot meals, weeknight comfort food
