When I first made this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta, I was immediately taken by its rich, comforting flavors and how effortlessly it came together. It’s the kind of dish that transforms a hectic weeknight into a delightful dining experience. Imagine sitting down to a bowl of creamy, garlic-infused pasta, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley; it’s pure bliss. This dish is not only quick and easy but also budget-friendly, making it perfect for busy families and garlic lovers alike.
Why you’ll love this dish
This creamy garlic pasta is destined to be a weeknight staple. Here’s why you should give it a try: it’s all in one pot, which means less cleanup for you, and the ingredients are simple and wholesome. You can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver after long days when you’d rather spend your time unwinding than slaving away in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or gourmet aficionados, this dish pleases every palate.
"I was surprised at how wonderfully creamy this pasta turned out! My kids keep asking for it every week!" — A happy home cook.
Preparing One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Now, let’s break down how to whip up this delicious dish. It may look simple, but the magic happens when you allow the garlic to infuse the olive oil, creating a fragrant base that pulls everything together. You will need just a few minutes of your time to achieve pasta perfection.
What you’ll need
For this recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- Pasta (any shape you prefer)
- Minced garlic
- Milk
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
If you’re in a pinch, feel free to swap out the milk for a non-dairy alternative or use different types of cheese based on what you have on hand.
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sautéing until it’s fragrant—this should take about a minute.
- Toss in your pasta and pour in enough water to cover it. Allow the pasta to cook until it’s al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is done, stir in the milk and Parmesan cheese. Keep mixing until everything is creamy and beautifully combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- For an elegant touch, garnish with parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
The beauty of One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta lies in its versatility. You can serve it immediately in deep bowls, topped with extra cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for a gourmet touch. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a satisfying meal. Adding roasted vegetables or sautéed shrimp can elevate your dish even further if you’re looking for something heartier.
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to a month. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to maintain that creamy texture. Remember to always practice safe food handling: discard any leftovers that have been sitting out for more than two hours.
Helpful cooking tips
To enhance flavors, consider letting your garlic get a touch golden—just be careful not to burn it! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful kick, while substituting some of the pasta water for milk can deepen the flavor. If you prefer a vegan version, try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to try:
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Veggie Delight: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful boost.
- Creamy Tomato: Incorporate a splash of tomato sauce for a creamy tomato pasta variation.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect quick dinner option.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, though cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for later use.
Embrace this creamy garlic pasta as a cozy addition to your weeknight repertoire; you’ll soon find it’s a beloved recipe both in the kitchen and at the dining table.
Print
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and comforting one-pot pasta dish infused with garlic and creamy goodness that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Pasta (any shape you prefer)
- Minced garlic
- Milk
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Toss in the pasta and pour in enough water to cover it. Cook until al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is done, stir in milk and Parmesan cheese until creamy and combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Can swap milk for a non-dairy alternative or use different cheese types. For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: creamy pasta, garlic pasta, one pot meal