why make this recipe
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta cooks fast and uses few ingredients. You make the pasta and the sauce in one pan. You save time and clean one dish.
introduction
This easy pasta is creamy, garlicky, and ready in about 20 minutes. You only need pasta, milk, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan. If you want a similar recipe with step-by-step photos, see the EasyDishy one-pot creamy garlic pasta for another clear guide.
how to make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Heat oil, cook garlic, add pasta and milk, then simmer until the pasta is soft and the sauce gets thick. Stir in Parmesan at the end so the sauce becomes smooth. For more ideas on cooking creamy pasta in one pot and handling the sauce, check the creamy chicken broccoli pasta with garlic parmesan sauce which uses similar techniques.
Ingredients :
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions :
- In a large pot or skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add pasta and pour in the milk. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve garnished with parsley if desired.
how to serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Serve it hot in bowls. Add extra Parmesan on top if you like. A green salad or steamed vegetables go well with it. You can add a squeeze of lemon for a bright touch.
how to store One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Cool the pasta to room temperature, then put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Do not freeze well because the milk can separate.
tips to make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Use a heavy pan or wide pot so the pasta cooks evenly.
- Stir often to stop the pasta from sticking.
- Use full-fat milk for a richer sauce.
- Pre-grate the Parmesan for easier melting.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a little more milk or reserved pasta water.
For ideas on making creamy soups and pasta textures, see the creamy celery potato mushroom soup with pasta for tips you can use here too.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for protein.
- Stir in spinach or peas at the end for veggies.
- Make it vegan by using plant milk and vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
FAQs
Q: Can I use water instead of milk?
A: You can, but the sauce will be less creamy. Add a little butter or cream cheese to help if you use water.
Q: What pasta works best?
A: Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti works well. Use the shape you like.
Q: How do I stop the sauce from being grainy?
A: Stir in the Parmesan off the heat and add it slowly. Use finely grated cheese and low heat.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can make it a day ahead and reheat gently with a splash of milk.
Conclusion
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is simple, fast, and comforting. For a vegan take and another one-pot method, see this helpful guide: Vegan One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta | Vegan Fettucine Alfredo.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot or skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add pasta and pour in the milk. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.