Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta (Just 20 Minutes!)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne); 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups milk; 1 cup water; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

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If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious meal that won’t take much time at all, then you’re in for a treat! This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta (Just 20 Minutes!) is my go-to recipe when I want something comforting yet quick. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you just want to unwind with a tasty dish or impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this pasta special is how easy it is to whip up. With just one pot and simple ingredients, you can create a creamy, garlicky delight that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening solo, this dish fits any occasion perfectly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less mess and more time to relax.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors of garlic and cheese.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!
Comfort Food at Its Best: This creamy pasta dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. You probably have most of these on hand already!

For the Pasta

8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups milk (whole preferred, or use any you have)
1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta)
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Optional Ingredients

2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
Chopped parsley or basil (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up according to your tastes.

Swap the protein: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
Add veggies: Toss in spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
Make it spicy: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a kick of heat!
Dairy-free option: Substitute almond milk and nutritional yeast for a creamy vegan alternative.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta (Just 20 Minutes!)

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by heating your butter or olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step is key because cooking the garlic releases its wonderful aroma and flavor into your dish.

Step 2: Add the Pasta and Liquid

Next, toss in your pasta along with the milk and water. Stir everything together so that the pasta is well-coated in that garlicky goodness. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. The liquid should just cover the pasta; if not, add a little more water as needed.

Step 3: Cook Until Tender

Allow the pasta to cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This part is important—keeping an eye on it ensures your pasta cooks evenly while absorbing all that delicious flavor from the sauce!

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Seasonings

Once the pasta is al dente, remove it from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you’re adding cream cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess, now’s the time! Mixing these in creates an irresistibly smooth sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, serve your One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta warm! Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired. Enjoy each bite knowing you’ve created something truly special with such ease!

And there you have it—a delightful dish ready in just 20 minutes! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta (Just 20 Minutes!)

Making this creamy garlic pasta is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure it’s perfect every time!

Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic not only enhances the flavor but also adds a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen. It’s one of the stars of this dish, so don’t skip it!
Adjust your milk: Feel free to use whatever milk you have on hand, but using whole milk gives the sauce a richer texture. If you want extra creaminess, consider adding cream cheese or sour cream.
Monitor the cooking time: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Different types may require slightly different times, and you want them al dente – tender yet firm to the bite.
Reserve some pasta water: If your pasta seems too thick or dry after cooking, adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen the sauce without sacrificing flavor.
Experiment with add-ins: This recipe is versatile! Adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli, or proteins such as grilled chicken or chickpeas can elevate the dish and make it even more satisfying.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta (Just 20 Minutes!)

Serving this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is all about making it look as good as it tastes! Here are some ideas to present your dish beautifully.

Garnishes

Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Grated Parmesan: A light dusting of additional Parmesan cheese right before serving elevates the dish’s flavor and makes it look restaurant-quality.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread: Nothing pairs better with pasta than warm, crispy garlic bread. It’s great for soaking up any leftover sauce!
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta and balances out the meal.
Steamed Broccoli: This bright green vegetable not only adds color to your plate but also brings in nutrients and fiber, making your dinner more wholesome.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add a delightful sweetness and earthy flavor that complements the richness of the pasta.

Enjoy making this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta; I hope it warms your heart and fills your home with delicious aromas!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve its deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep the pasta from becoming too dry, consider adding a splash of milk before storing.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for later use.
Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little milk or water to loosen it up as needed.
Stir gently until heated through, taking care not to overcook.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick meals later. Just follow the storage instructions above.

What types of pasta can I use for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta?

You can use spaghetti, linguine, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure it’s cooked until al dente for the best texture!

Can I add vegetables to One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta?

Yes! Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers while cooking. It’s a great way to add flavor and nutrients!

How can I make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta healthier?

You can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Adding more vegetables is another great way to boost nutrition without sacrificing taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta! It’s not only quick and easy but also incredibly comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re dining solo or sharing with loved ones, this dish is sure to brighten your meal. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite additions! Happy cooking!

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta (Just 20 Minutes!)

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Main
Method: One Pot Cooking
Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta, a delightful dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. With a luscious creamy sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese, this pasta is a family favorite that pleases both kids and adults alike. You can easily customize it by adding your preferred protein or vegetables, making it versatile enough to suit any taste. Gather your ingredients and enjoy a cozy meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.