One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a rich and comforting dish made with tender pasta cooked in a velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce—all in one pot for easy cleanup. It's a quick, family-friendly meal that's perfect on its own or served with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.
Equipment
- Large pot or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Garlic press or sharp knife
- Cheese grater
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 12 ounces linguine fettuccine, or spaghetti
- 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese optional, for extra creaminess
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the garlic
- Place a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds, stirring often. Do not let the garlic brown too much.
Step 2: Add the pasta and liquid
- Add the pasta, broth, milk, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently so the pasta starts to soften and sit under the liquid.
Step 3: Cook the pasta
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring often. The pasta should become tender and the liquid should turn creamy as it cooks.
Step 4: Adjust the sauce
- If the pasta looks too thick before it is fully cooked, add a small splash of milk or broth. If it looks too thin, let it simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes while stirring.
Step 5: Add the cheese
- Turn the heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cream cheese if using. Mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Taste and serve
- Taste the pasta and add more salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.