why make this recipe
This pasta is quick, creamy, and needs only one pot. You save time on dishes and get a warm, garlicky meal fast. If you like easy one-pot dinners, also check this hot honey ground beef bowl for another simple meal idea.
introduction
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is smooth and full of garlic flavor. You cook pasta right in milk and make a cheese sauce in the same pot. It is good for busy weeknights or when you want low effort food. For simple dinner ideas, see this hot honey ground beef bowl recipe that also cooks fast.
how to make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Heat oil and garlic in a large pot until the garlic smells good. Add the pasta and milk. Stir so the pasta is covered. Bring to a low boil, then lower the heat and simmer. Stir often so the pasta cooks evenly and the sauce gets creamy. When the pasta is soft, add the cheese and salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. If you want another easy one-pot dinner idea, try this hot honey ground beef bowl for a different flavor.
Ingredients :
- 8 oz pasta
- 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)
Directions :
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add pasta and milk to the pot; stir to combine.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and the sauce is creamy.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
how to serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Serve it hot from the pot. Add extra grated Parmesan on top. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or black pepper looks nice. Serve with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a full meal.
how to store One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Cool the pasta to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
tips to make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Use a pot large enough so the milk does not boil over.
- Stir often to stop the pasta from sticking.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk while reheating.
- Taste and add small amounts of salt at the end, because Parmesan is salty.
- For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan. For another quick dinner idea, try the hot honey ground beef bowl which is easy to make and full of flavor.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for protein.
- Stir in spinach or peas near the end for vegetables.
- Use half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino or a blend of cheeses for a different taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use water instead of milk?
A: You can, but the sauce will be less creamy. Mix water with a little butter for better taste.
Q: What pasta works best?
A: Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells works well. Thin pasta like spaghetti can also work but may need less cooking time.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use a plant-based milk and dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Heat and stir the same way.
Q: How do I stop the sauce from sticking?
A: Stir often and keep the heat medium-low. Add a little more milk if it becomes too thick.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but use a bigger pot and watch the cooking time. You may need more milk.
Conclusion
For a vegan twist on this idea, see the Vegan One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta that uses plant-based milk and cheese. For another take on a creamy garlic pasta, try the simple recipe at Kenna’s one-pot creamy garlic pasta. If you like garlic and Parmesan, read this Garlic Parmesan Pasta (One Pot!) for more ideas.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells works best.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk Can use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Use freshly grated for best results.
- Salt and pepper to taste Add at the end for best flavor.
- Fresh parsley (optional) for garnish Adds color and freshness to the dish.
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add pasta and milk to the pot; stir to combine.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and the sauce is creamy.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
