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One pot creamy garlic pasta in a large skillet garnished with fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Rich and creamy garlic pasta made in one pot with simple pantry ingredients. Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 430
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta spaghetti, linguine, or penne
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups milk whole milk preferred
  • 1 cup water or as needed to cover pasta
  • 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese or sour cream optional, for extra creaminess

Equipment

  • Large 12-inch skillet or 4-quart pot
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Melt the butter in a large 12-inch skillet or 4-quart pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant and light golden.
  2. Add the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to barely cover the pasta (about 1 cup). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes, until pasta is al dente and liquid has reduced to about 1/2 cup of creamy sauce. Add water 2 tablespoons at a time if liquid evaporates too quickly.
  4. Turn off heat but leave pan on burner. Immediately stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until cheese melts completely and sauce thickens, about 30 seconds. For extra richness, stir in cream cheese or sour cream.
  5. Let pasta rest in pan for 2 minutes to allow sauce to thicken further. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve hot.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results. Stir every 2 minutes to prevent sticking. Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk when reheating leftovers. For extra protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon. A 12-inch skillet or 4-quart pot is essential for proper evaporation.