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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!): Your New Go-To Weeknight Savior
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When you’re craving comfort food but don’t have the time (or energy) for a sink full of dishes, this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta comes to the rescue. It’s rich, cheesy, and full of garlicky goodness — all made in just 20 minutes using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or veggies to turn it into 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, but any works)

  • 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 fresh basil

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Garlic:
    In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter (or heat olive oil) over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant — but don’t let it brown.

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

  3. Cook the Pasta:
    Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently for 8–10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to a creamy consistency.

  4. Stir in Cheese & Seasonings:
    Add Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and thick. For an extra creamy texture, mix in cream cheese or sour cream.

  5. Serve:
    Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve immediately while hot and silky.

Notes

  • Keep Stirring: Since the pasta cooks directly in milk, stir often to prevent sticking.

  • Adjust Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or water to loosen it up.

  • Make It a Meal: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, spinach, or mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.

  • Cheese Tip: Always use freshly grated Parmesan — it melts better and gives a smoother sauce.

Nutrition

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

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