One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the perfect dish for those busy weeknights when you want something quick, easy, and delicious. It combines the comforting flavors of creamy cheese and garlic with pasta, all cooked in one pot. Not only does this save you time on cleanup, but it also allows the flavors to blend beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying meal.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
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
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add pasta and milk to the pot, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened (about 10-12 minutes).
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and creamy.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Serve the One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta warm, garnished with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Store any leftover creamy garlic pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best eaten within 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it becomes too thick.
Tips to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference. If you love garlic, consider adding an extra clove.
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk or cream.
Variation
You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and variety. This recipe is very flexible and can easily accommodate different ingredients based on your taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of pasta.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use a non-dairy milk alternative and dairy-free cheese.
How long does it take to make this dish?
The whole dish takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal weeknight meal.

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the uncooked pasta, chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper to the pot, then stir everything together well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy; adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.