One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a comforting dish that brings rich flavors and creamy textures to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this pasta dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With the combination of garlic, fresh parsley, and plenty of Parmesan cheese, each bite is a delightful experience that will have you coming back for more.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 390
- Protein: 17g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 62g per serving
- Fat: 10g per serving
- Fiber: 2g per serving
- Sugar: 5g per serving
- Sodium: 370mg per serving
Why Make This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the perfect solution for those who crave a hearty meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, you can whip up a delicious, creamy dish in about 20 minutes. The garlic gives a fragrant aroma and a rich taste, while the creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta. Plus, it’s a versatile meal that can easily adapt to include your favorite vegetables or proteins.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Making One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a breeze. Follow these simple instructions, and you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. This step infuses the oil with garlic’s lovely flavor.
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Step 2: Mixing
Add the pasta to the pot and pour in the milk, stirring well to combine. The liquid will begin to warm and create a sauce for the pasta.
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Step 3: Cooking
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook until the pasta is al dente, which should take about 10 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking.
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Step 4: Finishing
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Serve your One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta warm, perhaps with a light salad on the side. It also pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or steamed vegetables, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Feel free to sprinkle some additional Parmesan or crushed red pepper flakes on top for an added kick!
How to Store One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta should stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to the pasta and warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring often to restore its creamy consistency.
Expert Tips for Perfect One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine along with the milk for a richer taste.
- You can substitute half-and-half for a thicker sauce.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or seasonal vegetables.
- Ensure to keep stirring throughout cooking, as this prevents the pasta from sticking to the pot.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Delight: Incorporate your choice of vegetables, such as spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes, during the cooking phase.
- Creamy Spinach and Artichoke: Add canned artichoke hearts and fresh spinach for an extra creamy and satisfying twist.
- Lemon Garlic Pasta: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice into the dish right before serving for a bright, zesty touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape will work. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type. -
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Feel free to substitute with shredded mozzarella or a different cheese of your liking. -
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can use unsweetened almond or oat milk and substitute dairy-free cheese for a tasty vegan option. -
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or sauté some diced chili peppers along with the garlic for some heat. -
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh but you can prep the ingredients in advance and then cook it right before serving.
Conclusion
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a delightful and quick dish that is sure to please everyone at your table. It’s comforting, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try out different variations and make it your own! With its simplicity and amazing taste, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again. Enjoy cooking and savor every delicious bite!
Print
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting dish that brings rich flavors and creamy textures to your dinner table, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the pasta to the pot and pour in the milk, stirring well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a richer taste, add a splash of white wine with the milk. Substitute half-and-half for a thicker sauce.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
