Ever walked into a room filled with the rich aroma of garlic, only to find out it’s coming from your own kitchen?
There’s something undeniably comforting about a big bowl of creamy pasta that practically whispers, "Welcome home." This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta not only delivers the comforting vibes but also wraps you in a blanket of warm, garlic goodness. It’s one of those recipes that takes mere minutes to prepare while keeping cleanup to a minimum. If you’re ready for a meal that’s as quick as it is delicious, then buckle up!
Why make this recipe
Who doesn’t love the idea of dinner being both delicious and simple? This dish is your ticket to easy cooking, promising satisfaction with every creamy bite. You’ll appreciate:
- Easy Cleanup: Since everything comes together in one pot, you’ll spend less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying that pasta masterpiece.
- Kid-Friendly: With its creamy texture and subtle garlic flavor, this dish is a hit with the whole family—no battles over veggies here!
- Wallet-Friendly: It’s affordable and uses basic ingredients, making this an easy weeknight win.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 8 oz pasta (like penne or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the pasta and pour in the milk, making sure the pasta is covered.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the liquid has thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
How to make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta (Overview)
Picture this: you get home, you’re hungry, and you want something rich and comforting—enter this creamy pasta! Start by heating up olive oil and releasing that fragrant garlic in your kitchen. Next, toss in your pasta, cover it with milk, and let it simmer like it’s on vacation. Just 10-12 minutes later, stir in the Parmesan and season it to your liking.
Pro tip: Don’t rush the garlic sautéing step; that’s where the magic starts!
How to serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Serve it up hot in a cozy bowl with a sprinkle of vibrant green parsley on top for that extra pop of color. Pair your creamy pasta with a crunchy side salad or some garlic bread for that ultimate comfort food experience. The aroma alone will have you dreaming of Italian getaways!
How to store One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store your One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re considering batch cooking, this pasta holds well, but keep in mind that the creamy sauce might thicken upon refrigeration. Just add a splash of milk when reheating for the right consistency!
Tips to make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Adjust the cheese: Go crazy with the Parmesan! More cheese = more creaminess.
- Experiment with milk: Swap part of the milk for chicken or vegetable broth for a different flavor twist.
- Timing is key: Make sure to keep stirring occasionally to avoid any pasta clumps. No one likes an uneven dinner!
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Try adding cooked chicken or sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. If you want a vegan take, use plant-based milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative. You’ll still get that creaminess without the dairy guilt!
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Any substantial pasta shape works well. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
How do I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare everything except for the last step. Just reheat and stir in the cheese when you’re ready to serve!
Can this recipe be frozen?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly to keep it creamy.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the pasta and pour in the milk, ensuring the pasta is covered.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the liquid has thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
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