One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta (Print Version)

Tender pasta with rich garlic sauce and Parmesan cheese cooked in one pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.

# Ingredients:

01 - 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
02 - 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
03 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 cups whole milk (or any available milk)
05 - 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta)
06 - ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
07 - ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
08 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
09 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
11 - Chopped parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter (or heat the olive oil) over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
02 - Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
03 - Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8–10 minutes or until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce.
04 - Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For an extra creamy sauce, stir in cream cheese or sour cream.
05 - Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot.