why make this recipe
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick dinner solution or a novice cook eager to impress, this recipe fits the bill. With just a few ingredients and minimal clean-up, it is perfect for any weeknight meal. The creamy texture paired with garlicky goodness makes it comforting and satisfying. Plus, who doesn’t love a delicious pasta dish that can be made in one pot?
This recipe not only saves you time in the kitchen, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully in one pot. As you cook the pasta directly in the sauce, it absorbs all the delicious flavors, resulting in a dish that is both aromatic and tastefully indulgent. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a wholesome meal without feeling overwhelmed by complicated cooking techniques or lengthy ingredient lists.
how to make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Cooking One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is straightforward and can be done even by those who may not have much experience in the kitchen. Follow these simple steps to create a delightful meal in no time.
Ingredients :
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions :
- Prepare the pot: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the garlic: Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Cook the pasta: Add 8 oz of your choice of pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti) along with 2 cups of milk to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens, which typically takes about 10-12 minutes.
- Add Parmesan: After the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season: Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount, and adjust according to your preference.
- Serve: Serve the pasta warm on plates, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
how to serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Serve it hot, straight from the pot, either as a main dish or a side. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the freshness of the dish.
For a complete meal, you can pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread. The creaminess of the pasta contrasts nicely with a crisp, fresh salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. You might also consider adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables to increase the nutritional value and make the dish heartier.
how to store One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
If you have leftovers or wish to make this dish in advance, the good news is that One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta stores well. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate the pasta for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat it on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of milk or water to help loosen the sauce, and stir until heated through. This will help restore the creamy texture of the dish.
tips to make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
To ensure your One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of your pasta dish relies on the quality of the ingredients. Fresh garlic and good-quality Parmesan cheese will make a significant difference.
- Watch the pasta closely: Cooking times can vary based on the type of pasta used. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Taste it a minute or two before the suggested cook time is up.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to spice up the dish by adding extra herbs such as basil or thyme or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Don’t rush the simmer: Letting the pasta simmer in the milk allows it to absorb flavors, making the dish more delicious.
- Adjust consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more milk until you achieve your desired consistency.
variation
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a fantastic base for various variations, allowing you to tailor the dish to your tastes. Here are a few ideas:
- Vegetable-infused: Stir in some fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only adds nutrients but also color to your dish.
- Protein-packed: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier meal. Simply toss in the protein towards the end, allowing it to heat through.
- Creamy Mushroom: For mushroom lovers, sauté sliced mushrooms in the olive oil along with the garlic to add depth and umami flavor to your pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different types will vary.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with a plant-based milk, and you can use a vegan cheese alternative instead of Parmesan.
How spicy is this pasta dish?
The dish is not spicy unless you choose to add red pepper flakes or other spicy ingredients. It’s creamy and garlicky but overall mild in flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe. Just ensure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the extra ingredients, and adjust the cooking time as needed if you plan to use more pasta.
What sauces pair well with this recipe?
While this dish shines on its own, you can serve it with a light tomato sauce or a sprinkle of lemon juice for added zest.
Print
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy one-pot pasta dish that combines creamy garlic sauce with tender pasta for a delightful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add 8 oz of pasta along with 2 cups of milk to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens, about 10-12 minutes.
- After the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
For variations, consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or protein like chicken or shrimp.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: pasta, creamy, garlic, one pot, easy recipe, weeknight meal