One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
One-pot recipes make weeknight dinners a breeze, and this creamy garlic pasta is the perfect example. Simple yet indulgent, it’s the kind of dish that warms you up on a chilly evening or satisfies those late-night cravings. Crafted with just a handful of ingredients, this pasta is creamy, garlicky, and absolutely delicious. Let’s dive into what makes this dish a must-try!
Why you’ll love this dish
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta shines for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare — from start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in about 30 minutes. It’s also budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for families or those looking to eat well without breaking the bank. The creamy texture combined with the richness of garlic provides a comforting, restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
But don’t just take my word for it. Here’s what one happy chef had to say:
“This creamy garlic pasta is now a weekly staple! So easy to make, and the flavors are just to die for. My kids love it!” — Sarah M.
Preparing One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
This dish is simple and straightforward. You will be using just one pot, which means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal. The process involves sautéing garlic, simmering milk, and cooking the pasta all in a single vessel.
The key steps are:
- Heat olive oil and sauté garlic,
- Simmer milk,
- Add pasta,
- Stir in Parmesan until creamy.
Now let’s gather all the essentials you’ll need!
Gather these items
To whip up this delightful pasta dish, you’ll need:
- 8 oz pasta (any shape you prefer, like fettuccine or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk (whole milk gives a richer texture, but you can use any kind)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Feel free to swap out the pasta for whole grain or gluten-free varieties depending on your dietary needs.
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the 4 minced cloves of garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Carefully pour in 2 cups of milk and bring it to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Toss in the 8 oz of pasta and cook according to the package instructions, stirring from time to time.
- Once the pasta is al dente, stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and creates a creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if you like.
Best ways to enjoy it
This creamy garlic pasta can hold its own as a standalone dish, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread for an extra indulgent experience. You could also serve it alongside grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for added protein.
Storage and reheating tips
To store your leftovers, let the pasta cool down and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. When you’re ready to reheat, you can do so on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. If you prefer to freeze it, make sure to keep it in a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to 3 months. Just note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure your One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta comes out perfect every time, consider these tips:
- Make sure your garlic doesn’t burn; keep a close eye while sautéing.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creaminess. Pre-grated versions often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
- Adjust the consistency of your sauce by adding more milk if it becomes too thick.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Add vegetables: Spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes can add color and nutrition.
- Try different cheeses: Mix it up with mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
FAQ – Your questions answered
Q: How long does it take to prepare this pasta?
A: The total cooking time is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Q: Can I use non-dairy milk?
A: Yes, almond or oat milk can be good substitutes, though they may alter the taste and creaminess.
Q: What can I use instead of Parmesan?
A: Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Nutritional yeast is an excellent dairy-free option that adds a cheesy flavor.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure you’re using a large enough pot to accommodate the extra ingredients.
Q: How do I make this gluten-free?
A: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Cooking times may vary, so check package instructions.
Final thoughts
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is everything you want in a quick and satisfying meal. It’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and enjoy this delectable dish. If you try the recipe, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Feel free to drop a comment below. Happy cooking!
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the 4 minced cloves of garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Carefully pour in 2 cups of milk and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Toss in 8 oz of pasta and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is al dente, stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.