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One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta (Just 20 Minutes!): Your New Go-To Weeknight Savior

One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta (Just 20 Minutes!)
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If you’re short on time but craving something warm, cozy, and delicious, this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta will be your new go-to. With only one pan and a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have a rich, velvety pasta dish on the table in just 20 minutes. No draining, no complicated steps — just pure comfort in every bite. Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or veggies to make it a full meal!

Ingredients

Scale

  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)

  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)

  • 1 cup water (or enough to just cover the pasta)

  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)

  • Optional garnish: Chopped parsley or basil

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Garlic:
    In a large pot or deep skillet, melt butter (or heat olive oil) over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir constantly to avoid burning.

  2. Add Pasta & Liquid:
    Add dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just cover the noodles. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.

  3. Cook the Pasta:
    Lower heat and simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until pasta is al dente and most liquid has reduced into a creamy sauce.

  4. Stir in Cheese & Seasoning:
    Add Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. For an extra-rich texture, mix in cream cheese or sour cream.

  5. Serve:
    Garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

  • Make it a full meal: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or steamed broccoli for extra protein and flavor.

  • Lighter option: Use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk, but note the sauce will be slightly thinner.

  • Leftovers: Store in the fridge up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/one-pot-creamy-garlic-pasta-just-20-minutes-your-new-go-to-weeknight-savior-2/