One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is not your average weeknight meal; it’s a comforting bowl of happiness that fills the kitchen with the delightful aroma of garlic. This dish truly shines with its creamy texture and rich flavor, perfect for busy families or anyone craving a quick, cozy dinner. With a few staple ingredients, you can whip this up in no time, making it an ideal choice for last-minute meals or an intimate gathering with friends.

“This is my go-to pasta recipe! Super easy and always a hit with my kids!”

How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the fact that you’ll only need one pot! Start by gathering your ingredients; then, follow the easy steps to create a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that everyone will love. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want deliciousness without the hassle of a long cleanup.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta
• Garlic
• Milk
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional)

For substitutions, consider using whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist, or swap the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk.

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant.
2. Toss in the pasta and enough water to cover it completely. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the water is absorbed.
4. Gently stir in the milk and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until you achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or some roasted vegetables for added flavor and texture. If you’re feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish and give it an extra kick. Serve it for a cozy family dinner or as a quick meal when you’re entertaining friends.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze your pasta, let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When reheating, a splash of milk can help revive the creamy consistency. Warm it gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess!
• If you want to add some protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken or shrimp.
• For a more robust flavor, sauté some vegetables like spinach or bell peppers with the garlic.

Variations

Feel free to get creative! Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or even a hint of lemon for brightness. For a vegan version, swap the cheese and milk for plant-based alternatives, and you’ll have a delicious dish that caters to various dietary needs.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works great in this recipe; just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.

What type of pasta is best for this dish?
You can use any type of pasta you have on hand, but shorter shapes like penne or fusilli will hold the creamy sauce beautifully.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and reheat gently when ready to serve.

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