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One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta dish served in a bowl with herbs

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

A quick and easy one-pot creamy garlic pasta that's rich and flavorful, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta (any shape — fettuccine, penne, or shells work well)
Cooking ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1½–2 teaspoons)
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred for richness; 2% works in a pinch)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best melt and flavor)
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • for garnish Fresh parsley (optional)

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Don't let it darken.
  3. Pour in 2 cups of milk and increase heat slightly to bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine.
  4. Add the dry pasta to the simmering milk and cook according to the package time, stirring every few minutes.
  5. When the pasta is al dente, reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan until it melts into a creamy sauce.
  6. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Spoon into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.