Description
A quick and easy one-pot creamy garlic pasta recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a comforting Italian-inspired main course, this dish features tender pasta simmered in a garlicky, cheesy sauce made with milk, Parmesan, and optional cream cheese or sour cream for extra richness.
Ingredients
Pasta and Liquids
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any you have)
- 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta)
Flavorings and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- Chopped parsley or basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add Pasta & Liquid: Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8–10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce.
- Stir in Cheese & Seasoning: Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For an extra creamy sauce, stir in cream cheese or sour cream at this point.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use any pasta shape you prefer, but thin noodles like spaghetti, linguine, or penne work best.
- Whole milk is preferred for creaminess, but any milk will work.
- Stir frequently while cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- For a richer sauce, adding cream cheese or sour cream is optional but recommended.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh finish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
