One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
A quick and effortless one-pot meal that combines pasta with a creamy garlic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or shells) Shorter shapes hold the sauce well.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra-virgin for flavor)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Adjust to taste.
- 2 cups milk Whole milk gives the creamiest texture; 2% works fine.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is best for melting.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Warm until it shimmers.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding browning.
- Pour in the dry pasta and the milk. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking until al dente.
- Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan until melted, creating a creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
Use half-and-half or light cream for a richer sauce. For a dairy-free option, swap milk for unsweetened plant milk and use vegan Parmesan. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.