One pot creamy garlic pasta is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. It’s simple, cozy, and full of rich flavor. This recipe brings together tender pasta with a creamy garlic sauce that is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it all cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You Will Love This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

This dish is a family favorite for good reason. It’s incredibly easy to make and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand. Dinner comes together in just a single pot, making it a hassle-free meal after a long day. The flavor is rich and creamy while being mild enough for even the pickiest eaters. Your whole family will be asking for seconds!

How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Making this delightful pasta is straightforward and quick. You’ll start by melting butter and sautéing garlic to build a wonderful flavor base. Then, everything else gets added to the same pot, which makes for easy cooking and minimal cleanup. Just follow the steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal in no time.

What You Need

8 oz pasta of choice
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups milk
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the pasta and milk to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook according to the pasta package instructions until the pasta is al dente.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

This creamy garlic pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a more filling meal. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for a healthy touch. It’s perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy date night at home. The creamy sauce also provides a great base for adding in cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost!

How to Store One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to freeze it, place in a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to two months. When reheating, do so gently in a pan on low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to bring back the creaminess.

Recipe Tips

Make sure not to skip the sautéing of the garlic–it adds a lovely flavor.
Use any pasta shape you prefer; it all works well.
Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
If it gets too thick, add an extra splash of milk or water to loosen it up.
To make it a complete meal, consider adding cooked chicken or vegetables.

Variations & Swaps

For a lighter version, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
You can substitute heavy cream for milk for an even richer sauce.
Add in some cooked spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
For a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when cooking.
Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it on the stove with a bit of milk to restore its creamy texture.

Can I freeze One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It’s best enjoyed within two months of freezing.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Stir occasionally and take care not to overheat it, which can dry it out.

Are there any substitutions I can make for the ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you have at home, and swap out the butter for olive oil. For the cheese, nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free alternative.

What should I serve with this pasta?
This dish goes great with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp.