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One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a quick and comforting dish that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious meal in just 20 minutes.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: comfort food, Creamy Pasta, Easy Recipe, Garlic Pasta, One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta, Quick Dinner
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 500kcal

Equipment

  • large pot

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 8 oz pasta your favorite type works well; try penne for a twist
  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil butter adds richness, while olive oil gives a lighter touch

For the Sauce

  • 4 cloves garlic fresh garlic truly elevates the flavor profile of this dish
  • 2 cups milk whole milk results in a creamy sauce, but you can use skim if you prefer
  • 1 cup water this helps cook the pasta evenly while creating a sauce
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances that irresistible, cheesy goodness in your one pot creamy garlic pasta
  • ½ teaspoon salt balances the flavors, but adjust to your taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning infuses that authentic Italian vibe into your meal

For Optional Creaminess

  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream adds an extra layer of creaminess if desired

For Garnish

  • Chopped parsley or basil fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add a burst of flavor

Instructions

How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

  • In a large pot, melt the butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let it brown!
  • Add the pasta, milk, and water to the pot. Stir to ensure the pasta is covered in liquid, which will help create that creamy sauce as it cooks.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cook according to package instructions until the pasta is al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
  • Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until everything is well blended and the sauce is creamy.
  • If desired, serve the pasta topped with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh finish. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Notes

Optional: Add sautéed veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Always use fresh garlic for the best flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 500kcal | Carbohydrates: 60g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 300mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 10IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 10mg
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