One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the perfect weeknight recipe when you want something rich, comforting, and fuss-free. This dish delivers a velvety garlic sauce that clings to every bite of tender pasta, all cooked together in one pot for easy cleanup. It’s a family-friendly favorite that even beginner cooks can master in under 40 minutes. Pair it with my Herb Butter Roasted Whole Turkey Recipe for a complete dinner spread that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta - Easy & Quick Comfort Food
Try this easy One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta for a quick, comforting meal. Rich, garlicky sauce and tender pasta all made in one pot!
- Made in one pot for easy cooking and less cleanup
- Rich, creamy garlic sauce that coats every bite
- Uses pantry staples and accessible ingredients
- Perfect for quick weeknight meals or meal prep
Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta - Easy & Quick Comfort Food
Chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels or vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt; substitute with olive oil for dairy-free.
- Chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels or vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt; substitute with olive oil for dairy-free.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta - Easy & Quick Comfort Food are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta - Easy & Quick Comfort Food
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Sauté the garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and milk; stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked pasta and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid has mostly absorbed, about 15-18 minutes.
Expert Tips for One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta - Easy & Quick Comfort Food
- Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking to the pot.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting texture.
- If sauce thickens too much, add a little more milk to loosen it up.
One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta - Easy & Quick Comfort Food
Try this easy One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta for a quick, comforting meal. Rich, garlicky sauce and tender pasta all made in one pot!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil
- Extra grated Parmesan
- Cooked crispy bacon or chicken pieces
Instructions
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
- Sauté the garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and milk; stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked pasta and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid has mostly absorbed, about 15-18 minutes.
- Finish with cheese: Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.
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 Comfort Food FAQs
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess before serving.
Vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative. You can also use water with a bit of bouillon for flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing to maintain sauce texture.
If pasta absorbs too much liquid, add more broth or milk during cooking. Avoid overcooking by testing pasta a minute or two before package time.
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- One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta original recipe
Before You Go
If you try this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta - Easy & Quick Comfort Food, I’d love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.