One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the ultimate easy and quick recipe for a comforting dinner any night of the week. This creamy, garlicky pasta is cooked all in one pot, which means less mess and more flavor. The sauce is silky and rich, clinging perfectly to tender pasta for a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s beginner-friendly and made with pantry staples. Pair it with my Herb Butter Roasted Whole Turkey Recipe for a complete family feast.
Why You'll Love One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick, and Delicious Comfort Food
Make this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta for a quick, easy, and comforting homemade dinner. Perfect for beginners and busy weeknights.
- Only one pot needed – easy cleanup!
- Creamy and garlicky flavor that’s comforting and satisfying.
- Quick and beginner-friendly, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Uses simple pantry staples for a budget-friendly meal.
Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick, and Delicious Comfort Food
Broth: Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth for good flavor and control saltiness; water can be substituted but broth enhances taste.Pasta: Penne or rotini are best as they hold sauce well; spaghetti can be used but stir gently to avoid sticking.
- Broth: Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth for good flavor and control saltiness; water can be substituted but broth enhances taste.
- Pasta: Penne or rotini are best as they hold sauce well; spaghetti can be used but stir gently to avoid sticking.
📋 Full measurements for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick, and Delicious Comfort Food are in the recipe card below.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick, and Delicious Comfort Food
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Sauté the garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Add liquids and pasta: Pour in chicken broth and milk. Stir in uncooked pasta, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Cook pasta: Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 15-18 minutes.
Expert Tips for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick, and Delicious Comfort Food
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melt and flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta; it will absorb liquid as it rests.
- Stir often to keep pasta from sticking to the pot bottom.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick, and Delicious Comfort Food
Make this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta for a quick, easy, and comforting homemade dinner. Perfect for beginners and busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) uncooked pasta (penne or rotini works best)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms (for added texture)
Instructions
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Sauté the garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in chicken broth and milk. Stir in uncooked pasta, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Cook pasta: Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 15-18 minutes.
- Finish with cheese: Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended — texture changes on thawing.
- Reheat: Best served chilled or at room temperature.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick, and Delicious Comfort Food FAQs
Can I make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep ingredients and cook fully, then store in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving to maintain the creamy texture.
What’s the best substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can work well as alternatives and provide a similar salty, nutty flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to avoid dryness.
Why did my pasta turn out dry or soggy?
Dry pasta means not enough liquid or too high heat; soggy pasta is usually overcooked. Stir frequently and monitor pasta texture while cooking.
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Before You Go
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