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Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta – One Pot Meal Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta – One Pot Meal Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Busy weeknight, growling stomach, zero desire to dirty a pile of dishes—we’ve all been there. That’s exactly when Easy Creamy Garlic Pasta swoops in like a culinary superhero. One pot, 20 minutes, maximum flavor. What more could you want?
This is the kind of dish that doesn’t pretend to be fancy. It’s comfort food that knows exactly what it is: creamy, garlicky, ridiculously satisfying. Think of it as the upgraded version of Simple Garlic Pasta—same vibe, way silkier sauce. And yes, the garlic hits in the best way possible.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

What You’ll Need (Most of It’s Already in Your Kitchen)
A handful of everyday staples is all it takes:
  • Pasta: Spaghetti fettuccine, penne—whatever you’ve got works.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced for maximum aroma.
  • Butter or Olive Oil: Your sauté base and flavor booster.
  • Milk: Whole milk gives the richest texture but any type will do in a pinch.
  • Parmesan: Grated fresh for the meltiest result.
  • Optional Richness: Cream cheese or sour cream for extra velvety sauce.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning.
  • Italian Herbs: A premixed blend or your own dried basil/oregano/thyme combo.
  • Fresh Herbs: Parsley or basil to finish if you’ve got them.

Method
 

How to Make It (Simple, Straightforward, Stress-Free)
    Sauté the Garlic
    1. Warm butter or oil in a wide pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle until golden and fragrant—just a minute or two.
    Add the Pasta + Liquids
    1. Drop in the dry noodles, pour in the milk, and add just enough water to cover. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat.
    Simmer to Softness
    1. Cook uncovered, stirring now and then so nothing sticks. Depending on pasta type, this takes about 8–10 minutes.
    Stir in the Good Stuff
    1. When the liquid thickens into a creamy sauce, mix in the Parmesan, salt, pepper, and herbs. Want extra richness? Add a spoon of cream cheese or sour cream.
    Customize or Plate It Up
    1. Stir in spinach, cooked chicken, mushrooms—anything you love. Top with herbs and serve hot.
    Quick Tips for a Sub-20-Minute Meal
    1. Choose thin pasta for faster cooking.
    2. Use hot water or warmed milk to speed up the simmer.
    3. Measure ingredients beforehand to avoid delays.
    4. Garlic paste or pre-minced garlic saves time.
    5. Stir frequently so pasta doesn’t clump.
    Fun Add-Ins & Variations
    1. Proteins:
    2. Rotisserie or grilled chicken
    3. Shrimp or flaky salmon
    4. Crisp bacon or pancetta
    5. Plant-based meats or tofu
    Veggies:
    1. Spinach or kale
    2. Mushrooms
    3. Peas
    4. Sun-dried tomatoes
    5. Cheese Ideas:
    6. Pecorino
    7. Cream cheese
    8. Fontina or Gouda
    Spicy Twists:
    1. Chili flakes
    2. Cajun seasoning
    3. Blackened seasoning
    What to Serve Alongside
      Balance the creaminess with something bright or crunchy:
      1. Fresh green salad with tangy dressing
      2. Garlic toast or rustic bread
      3. Roasted or steamed greens
      4. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemon water
      Cleanup & Storage
        Only one pot to wash—win!
        1. Keep leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days.
        2. Reheat with a splash of milk or water to revive the sauce.
        3. Skip freezing—dairy sauces don’t thaw well.

        Notes

        FAQ

        Can I freeze this?
        Not recommended. Dairy separates and becomes grainy after thawing.
        Can I swap the pasta shape?
        Absolutely. Just adjust cook time based on thickness or type.
        Looking for more heat?
        Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or sprinkle them at the end for a fiery finish.