This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the ultimate 20-minute comfort food dinner. Made in a single pan with garlic, milk, and Parmesan cheese, it’s rich, creamy, and incredibly easy. Whether you’re cooking for your family, a partner, or just yourself, this is the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to again and again.
8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups whole milk
1 cup water (enough to just cover the pasta)
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess
Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet or pot, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Pasta and Liquids: Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just cover the noodles. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Simmer Until Tender: Let the pasta cook uncovered, stirring occasionally. This takes about 8–10 minutes, depending on the pasta type.
Add Cheese and Seasoning: Once the pasta is cooked and the liquid has reduced to a creamy consistency, stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Optional: Add a spoonful of cream cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess.
Customize or Serve As-Is: Fold in baby spinach, cooked chicken, or sautéed mushrooms if you like. Garnish with parsley and serve hot!
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
Protein: 15 g
Fat: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 50 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 800 mg
Cholesterol: 40 mg