Easy One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
This Easy One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is rich, silky, and packed with garlic flavor. Everything cooks in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum comfort. Ready in under 30 minutes for the perfect weeknight pasta dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 to 6 garlic cloves minced
- 3 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 1/2 cups milk or half and half
- 12 ounces uncooked spaghetti or linguine
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid browning.
- Pour in broth and milk. Add the uncooked pasta, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.
- When the pasta is al dente and the liquid has reduced to a saucy consistency, remove from heat.
- Stir in Parmesan until melted and the sauce turns creamy and glossy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a splash of warm milk or broth.
- If the sauce is thin, simmer 1 to 2 more minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add-ins: sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Protein options: cooked chicken, shrimp added at the end.
- For extra richness, replace some milk with heavy cream.
- Dairy free option: plant butter, unsweetened oat or almond milk, and a dairy free Parmesan alternative.
- Gluten free option: use gluten free pasta and simmer gently, adding liquid as needed since GF pasta absorbs differently.
- Reheat gently with a splash of liquid to restore creaminess.