Description
A quick and comforting one-pot creamy garlic pasta made with simple ingredients and ready in just 20 minutes. Rich, flavorful, and perfect for an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any type)
- 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (optional)
- Chopped parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly.
- Add the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to barely cover the pasta. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has reduced into a creamy sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Add cream cheese or sour cream if using.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking and to help create a creamy sauce.
- Add more water or milk if the sauce becomes too thick before the pasta is fully cooked.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth texture.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of milk.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for variation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
