Need dinner fast without skimping on flavor?
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is here to save your night!
Made with simple ingredients, a bold garlic flavor, and a silky smooth sauce, this comforting dish comes together in just 20 minutes and uses only one pot, yes, really!
Whether you’re cooking for your family, a partner, or just yourself, this is the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This 20-Minute One Pot Pasta
- One pot = easy cleanup
- 20-minute total cook time
- Big garlic flavor with minimal effort
- Creamy, cheesy, cozy perfection
- Endlessly customizable with proteins or veggies
This creamy garlic pasta hits all the right notes. It’s affordable, satisfying, and foolproof, even if you’re short on time or cooking confidence.
Plus, it’s the perfect pantry-friendly recipe that you can throw together at the last minute.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Pantry-Friendly!)
You probably already have most of these ingredients on hand:
- Pasta – Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work great.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic for rich, aromatic flavor.
- Butter or Olive Oil – For sautéing and flavor.
- Milk – Whole milk is ideal, but any kind will do.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for the best melt and flavor.
- Optional – Cream cheese or sour cream for added richness.
- Salt & Pepper – To balance and brighten.
- Italian Seasoning – Or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Optional garnish – Fresh parsley or basil.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Foolproof Method)
Here’s how to make it:
- Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet or pot, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. - Add Pasta + Liquids:
Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just cover the noodles. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. - Simmer Until Tender:
Let the pasta cook uncovered, stirring occasionally. This takes about 8–10 minutes, depending on the pasta type. - Add Cheese + Seasoning:
Once the pasta is cooked and liquid has reduced to a creamy consistency, stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Optional: Add a spoonful of cream cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess. - Customize or Serve As-Is:
Fold in baby spinach, cooked chicken, or sautéed mushrooms if you like. Garnish with parsley and serve hot!
Tips for Making It in Under 20 Minutes
- Use thin pasta like angel hair or linguine for faster cook times.
- Use preheated milk or hot water to jumpstart the simmer.
- Pre-measure your ingredients to avoid scrambling mid-recipe.
- Use pre-minced garlic or garlic paste to shave off a few minutes.
- Stir regularly to prevent the pasta from sticking.
Variations and Add-Ins to Try
This creamy garlic pasta is a blank canvas—try these upgrades:
Protein Options:
- Grilled or rotisserie chicken
- Cooked shrimp or salmon
- Crispy bacon or pancetta
- Plant-based sausage or tofu
Veggie Add-Ins:
- Baby spinach or kale
- Mushrooms
- Frozen peas
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Cheese Swaps:
- Pecorino Romano
- Cream cheese
- Gouda or Fontina for meltiness
For Spice Lovers:
- Red pepper flakes
- Cajun or blackened seasoning
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Pasta
Balance the richness of the pasta with something light and fresh:
- Simple green salad with balsamic or lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty sourdough
- Roasted or steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans
- A glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon
Easy Cleanup & Storage Tips
- Only one pot or pan needed – less mess!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of milk or water to rehydrate the sauce.
- Not freezer-friendly (dairy sauces tend to separate).
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I freeze this pasta?
Freezing is not recommended as dairy-based sauces tend to separate and become grainy upon reheating.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Linguine, rotini, or fettuccine all work well. Adjust cook time based on pasta shape.
How do I make this spicier?
Add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or stir them in at the end.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta (Just 20 Minutes!)
- 8 oz pasta spaghetti, linguine, or penne
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups milk whole preferred, or use any you have
- 1 cup water or as needed to just cover the pasta
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- Optional: garnish Chopped parsley or basil
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 pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce.
Stir in Cheese & Seasoning:
-
Add 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.
