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One-pot creamy garlic pasta with a smooth Parmesan sauce served hot in a bowl
Isaac blogger

The Easiest Creamy Garlic Pasta

A quick and comforting one-pot creamy garlic pasta made with tender noodles, fresh garlic, milk, and Parmesan—ready in just 20 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories:
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1–1½ cups water
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Fresh parsley (optional)

Method
 

  1. Before You Begin
  2. Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.
  3. Melt butter or heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant, without browning.
  4. Add pasta, milk, and water. Stir gently to separate noodles.
  5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  6. Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until melted and smooth.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Stir pasta frequently while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Cook 8–10 minutes, until pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  • Remove from heat before adding Parmesan to keep the sauce smooth.
  • Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk until warmed through and steaming (165°F / 74°C).
  • Discard if odor, texture, or appearance changes.