If you love pasta that’s bursting with flavor yet wonderfully simple, then you’re going to adore this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta. It’s a luscious dish where tender pasta meets a velvety garlic-infused sauce, all made effortlessly in a single pot. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of creamy texture and bold garlic notes, making it a beloved weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. The magic of this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta lies in its simplicity and speed, showing you don’t need complicated steps or countless dishes to create an irresistibly satisfying meal.

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in building the creamy, garlicky goodness of this dish. From the sharp bite of Parmesan to the mellow warmth of Italian seasoning, every element combines seamlessly to create a delightful harmony in taste and texture.

8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne): The canvas of your dish, choose your favorite shape for the perfect bite.
1 tablespoon butter or olive oil: Adds richness and helps beautifully sauté the garlic without burning.
4 cloves garlic (minced): The star ingredient—fresh, fragrant, and full of flavor.
2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any you have): Creates the creamy base that makes this pasta incredibly luscious.
1 cup water (or as needed): Ensures the pasta cooks evenly while softening into the sauce.
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp, salty, and melting into the sauce for unmistakable depth.
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors for a perfectly seasoned dish.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat to complement the creamy sauce.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that lifts the flavor profile in every bite.
Optional 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream: For those who crave an ultra-creamy texture, this addition is pure bliss.
Optional garnish chopped parsley or basil: Brightens the dish and adds a fresh, herbal pop of color.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by heating the butter or olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add your minced garlic and sauté it for just 1 to 2 minutes. This step is crucial because it unlocks the garlic’s rich aroma—just be sure to stir constantly to prevent any burning, which could turn the flavor bitter.

Step 2: Add Pasta and Liquid

Next, pour in your dry pasta along with the milk and just enough water to barely cover the noodles. This combination allows the pasta to cook straight in the creamy sauce without needing extra steps. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a gentle boil, setting the stage for the noodles to absorb all that garlicky goodness.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and leave the pot uncovered. Stir frequently over the next 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta becomes al dente and most of the liquid has thickened into a silky sauce. This is the heart of the One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta experience, where simplicity meets creamy perfection.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Seasoning

After the pasta is perfectly cooked, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until the cheese melts into the sauce, thickening it further and making it irresistibly creamy. For an extra indulgent touch, mix in some cream cheese or sour cream at this stage to elevate the smoothness and flavor even more.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Once your sauce reaches that ideal creamy consistency, it’s time to plate up. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh, colorful accent, and serve your One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta while it’s hot for the best taste and texture.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh basil instantly brightens the rich, creamy flavors while adding a pop of green that’s as pretty as it is tasty. You can also add a little extra Parmesan for cheesier indulgence or a crack of black pepper to finish.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with light sides like a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce—because with flavors this good, every last bite counts.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fancier touch, try serving the pasta in shallow bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and a few toasted pine nuts or chili flakes for a subtle crunch and heat. You could also add sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken strips directly into the pot for a heartier meal that doesn’t sacrifice convenience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta reheats wonderfully, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon cooling, but a quick stir with a splash of milk will bring back that creamy texture in no time.

Freezing

While you can freeze the pasta, keep in mind the texture might change slightly after thawing—the creamy sauce can separate a little. To freeze, place portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat your pasta slowly over low heat, adding a little milk or water to loosen the sauce as it warms. Stir often to avoid sticking or burning and return the sauce to its signature creamy consistency. Microwave reheating works too—just add a splash of milk and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti, linguine, or penne work wonderfully, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the liquid as needed because different shapes and sizes may require slightly more or less to cook properly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat, and use dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives. The flavors will be slightly different, but it’ll still be delicious and creamy.

Can I add vegetables or protein to this dish?

Definitely! You can stir in baby spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes during cooking. For protein, cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits make fantastic additions, turning it into a more substantial meal.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, no worries—you can use a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme individually, or even just a pinch of dried herbs you like. It won’t change the dish too much but will still add lovely herbal notes.

Why is the pasta sometimes too thick or too watery?

The balance of liquid is key to the sauce texture. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or water while cooking. If it’s too watery, continue to simmer uncovered so the excess liquid evaporates. Stirring often helps distribute heat and prevent sticking.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta truly is a celebration of flavor and comfort in a single dish. It’s effortless but feels like a special treat every time you make it. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or sharing with friends, I encourage you to try this recipe and see how simple ingredients come together into something unforgettable. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 26 reviews

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

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Description

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick, comforting, and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Made with simple ingredients like pasta, garlic, milk, and Parmesan cheese, it’s creamy and flavorful without requiring multiple pots or complicated steps. The addition of optional cream cheese or sour cream boosts the richness, while fresh herbs add a bright finish.

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, followed by the milk and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir everything to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered. Stir frequently for 8–10 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has thickened into a creamy sauce.
Stir in Cheese & Seasoning: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For an extra creamy texture, fold in cream cheese or sour cream at this stage.
Serve: Garnish the pasta with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

You can use any type of pasta you prefer: spaghetti, linguine, penne, or even fusilli work well in this recipe.
Adjust the amount of water to ensure the pasta is just covered to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
Using whole milk results in a richer sauce, but low-fat or plant-based milks can be substituted for a lighter dish.
For a vegan version, substitute dairy milk with unsweetened plant milk and replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

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