One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a simple and delicious meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. The rich, smooth sauce coated with tender pasta makes for a comforting dinner any night of the week. This easy recipe uses pantry staples and cooks all in one pot, making it beginner-friendly and perfect for hectic evenings. Pair it with my Herb Butter Roasted Whole Turkey Recipe for a satisfying family feast.
Why You'll Love One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick & Delicious Dinner
Discover the easy One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe that’s quick, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under 40 minutes!
- Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal cleanup
- Rich, creamy garlic sauce made from scratch
- Uses simple pantry staples you likely have on hand
- Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep
Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick & Delicious Dinner
Chicken broth: Low-sodium preferred to control saltiness; vegetable broth works as a vegetarian option.Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated gives best flavor; pre-grated can be used but may affect melting.
- Chicken broth: Low-sodium preferred to control saltiness; vegetable broth works as a vegetarian option.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated gives best flavor; pre-grated can be used but may affect melting.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick & Delicious Dinner are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick & Delicious Dinner
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Sauté the garlic: In a large deep skillet or pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Add liquids and pasta: Pour in chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer, then add the dry pasta. Stir to submerge pasta completely.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Cook the pasta: Simmer uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for about 12-15 minutes or until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Expert Tips for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick & Delicious Dinner
- Use a pasta shape that absorbs sauce well, like penne or fusilli for variation.
- Stir frequently during cooking to avoid pasta sticking to the bottom.
- Add cooked chicken, sausage, or veggies to make it a full meal.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick & Delicious Dinner
Discover the easy One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe that’s quick, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under 40 minutes!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning or dried basil
Optional Toppings
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan for garnish
- Cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a protein boost
Instructions
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Sauté the garlic: In a large deep skillet or pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer, then add the dry pasta. Stir to submerge pasta completely.
- Cook the pasta: Simmer uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for about 12-15 minutes or until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Stir in grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until creamy. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 2 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick & Delicious Dinner FAQs
Yes, you can prepare it up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Reheat gently adding a bit of milk to refresh the sauce.
Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version or you can use water and extra seasonings if needed.
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best taste and safety.
Dryness may occur if not enough liquid was used or pasta cooked too long. Sogginess can happen if too much liquid remains; adjust broth and cooking time accordingly.
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Before You Go
If you try this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta – Easy, Quick & Delicious Dinner, I’d love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.