One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or preferred type); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups milk; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

olivia

Published:

October 25, 2025

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta in a bowl garnished with herbs

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal. It combines the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese with tender pasta, all cooked in one pot. This means less cleanup for you and maximum flavor in every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is also versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (spaghetti or preferred type)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups milk
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

In a large pot or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the pasta and pour in the milk. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cook according to pasta package instructions, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the milk is mostly absorbed.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Serve this creamy pasta dish hot straight from the pot. It goes great on its own or as a side dish. You can pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top can also enhance the flavor.

How to Store One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta may absorb more liquid as it sits, so you might want to add a splash of milk when reheating. It can be safely stored for about 3-4 days.

Tips to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Pasta Type: You can use any pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Garlic Lovers: If you love garlic, feel free to add more minced garlic for a stronger flavor.
Extra Creaminess: For a richer dish, you can add a splash of heavy cream along with the milk.
Vegetable Boost: Add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage. A dash of red pepper flakes can also spice things up a bit!

FAQs

Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute regular milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any non-dairy milk of your choice.

How long does it take to make this dish?
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta takes about 20-30 minutes from start to finish.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the creaminess may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh!