Description
A quick and comforting one-pot creamy garlic pasta with rich flavor and a velvety sauce that coats every bite. Perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
8 oz spaghetti, linguine, or penne
1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups milk
1 cup water, plus extra if needed
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (optional)
chopped parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Melt the butter or heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the dry pasta, milk, and water. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and the liquid thickens.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- If desired, stir in the cream cheese or sour cream for extra richness.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley or basil, and serve hot.
Notes
Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Include vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli during simmering for added nutrition.
For more flavor, increase garlic or add chili flakes.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
