One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta for Busy Weeknights

Quick, Creamy, and Full of Flavor

Make dinner simple and satisfying with this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta that’s rich, silky, and full of flavor. Perfect for busy nights, this dish comes together fast with minimal cleanup and maximum comfort. Save this recipe to try tonight and enjoy a warm, homemade meal without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Pasta

This simple pasta recipe is a weeknight hero. The creamy texture, balanced seasoning, and irresistible aroma of garlic make it a family favorite. Every bite is silky, cheesy, and full of flavor. Plus, since it’s a one-pot dish, you save time and effort while keeping your kitchen spotless.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a few pantry staples to create this mouthwatering dish.

Produce

• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

Pasta & Grains

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite type)

Baking & Spices

• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt

Oils & Vinegars

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

Dairy

• 2 cups milk
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Liquids

• 1 cup water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for the best One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta you’ve ever tasted.

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add butter or olive oil. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 2: Add Pasta and Liquids

Add the dry pasta directly into the pot. Pour in the milk and water. Stir to combine and make sure the pasta is submerged. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Cook Until Creamy

Stir occasionally as the pasta cooks and absorbs the liquid. After about 10–12 minutes, the sauce will thicken naturally. Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish

When the pasta is tender, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley. Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Pasta

• Use whole milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Stir the pasta frequently to prevent sticking.
• Adjust the thickness by adding a splash of milk or water if needed.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs.

Why This Recipe Works

This one-pot pasta method allows the noodles to cook directly in the sauce, absorbing all the flavor. The starch released from the pasta thickens the sauce naturally, creating a silky, luxurious texture. You won’t need cream or fancy ingredients—just simple staples that deliver big taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Creamy Garlic Pasta with roasted vegetables or grilled tofu for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Make It Your Own

This dish is easy to customize. Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth. You can even stir in a handful of mozzarella for extra creaminess.

Nutrition and Benefits

This comforting dish is rich in calcium and protein from the milk and cheese. It’s vegetarian-friendly and lighter than heavy cream-based pastas. Each serving offers satisfying flavor with a balanced nutritional profile.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for any night of the week. It’s quick, flavorful, and uses ingredients you likely already have. From its silky sauce to its irresistible garlic aroma, this pasta is pure satisfaction in a bowl.

Make it once, and it’ll become your go-to weeknight dinner favorite. Simple, creamy, and unforgettable — the perfect pasta for every occasion.