Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When it comes to simple yet satisfying meals, nothing beats a steaming bowl of One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta. This dish is the definition of comfort food — creamy, garlicky, and ready in under 30 minutes. The best part? Everything cooks in one pot, so cleanup is minimal. The pasta absorbs all the rich flavors from the garlic, butter, and cream, giving every bite a luscious, velvety texture. I once made this using oat milk instead of cream, and it still turned out beautifully — light, smooth, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a cozy dinner, or just need a quick weeknight fix, this recipe hits the mark every time. Serve it on its own or pair it with roasted chicken, shrimp, or a simple salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
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One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta: Comfort Food Made Effortless
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish made entirely in one pot. With tender pasta cooked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce, it’s a quick and comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknights — minimal cleanup, maximum flavor!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 250 g (8 oz) spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, but not browned.
- Pour in the broth, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the pasta directly into the liquid and stir to prevent sticking.
- Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream.
- Toss until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta evenly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and chili flakes before serving.
Notes
- For added protein, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms.
- Use whole milk for a richer texture or low-fat milk for a lighter version.
- Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking or burning.
- Leftovers reheat well with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pasta – Any long pasta such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine works perfectly. The starch released as it cooks helps thicken the sauce naturally.
Butter – Adds richness and depth to the dish. Use unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning.
Garlic – The heart of the recipe. Fresh minced garlic infuses the entire dish with a warm, aromatic flavor. Feel free to add extra cloves if you love a stronger garlic taste.
Heavy cream – Creates that luxurious, creamy base. You can substitute with half-and-half, milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like oat or almond milk for a lighter version.
Parmesan cheese – Adds saltiness, nuttiness, and a silky texture when melted into the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan makes all the difference.
Vegetable or chicken broth – Instead of boiling the pasta in plain water, it simmers in flavorful broth, absorbing every bit of taste as it cooks.
Olive oil – Prevents the pasta from sticking and balances the richness of butter with a subtle fruity note.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the creamy, garlicky goodness.
Parsley – Fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness of the sauce.
Red pepper flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat that cuts through the creaminess.
Directions
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted and slightly bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant — be careful not to brown it.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has reduced.
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you prefer a slightly thinner sauce, add a splash of extra broth or milk.
Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Equipment needed
Large pot or deep skillet
Wooden spoon or tongs
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Grater for Parmesan cheese
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture. Warm over low heat on the stovetop or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Avoid freezing, as the dairy sauce may separate.
Variations and Customizations
Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Add sautéed shrimp at the end for a protein-packed, restaurant-style version.
Spinach and Mushroom Garlic Pasta
Toss in fresh spinach leaves and sliced mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
Lemon Garlic Pasta
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, tangy twist.
Chicken Garlic Pasta
Mix in cooked, shredded chicken breast for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Vegan Creamy Garlic Pasta
Use olive oil instead of butter, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version that’s still creamy and delicious.
Garlic Alfredo Style
Increase the butter and Parmesan for a richer, alfredo-inspired take.
Bacon Garlic Pasta
Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory upgrade that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Tomato Garlic Pasta
Stir in a few tablespoons of tomato paste or sun-dried tomatoes for a subtle sweetness and beautiful color.
Herb Infused Garlic Pasta
Add Italian herbs such as oregano, thyme, or basil for an aromatic touch.
Spicy Creamy Garlic Pasta
Mix in a spoonful of chili oil or extra red pepper flakes for a bold, fiery version.
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add more Parmesan to help thicken it.
What pasta shape works best?
Long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine, but short pasta such as penne or rigatoni also works well.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and cheese are gluten-free.
How can I make it lighter?
Use half milk and half broth instead of cream for a lower-fat version.
What protein can I add?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu make excellent additions.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it a few hours in advance and reheat gently before serving.
Why did my sauce get too thick?
Add a splash of broth or milk while reheating to loosen it back up.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely — spinach, peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes are delicious choices.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great substitutes with similar flavors.
Can I make this spicy?
Yes, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a touch of chili oil for heat.
Conclusion
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence — a quick, comforting meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The creamy sauce, infused with fragrant garlic and Parmesan, clings to every strand of pasta, creating a dish that feels both luxurious and homey. Whether you’re cooking for guests or enjoying a quiet evening in, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser — comforting, flavorful, and deliciously creamy in every bite.
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