Save this recipe on:

When your evening calls for comfort food but your energy says “minimal cleanup, please,” this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is exactly what you need. It’s luscious, creamy, packed with the bold flavor of garlic, and best of all, everything cooks in one single pot. That means fewer dishes, quicker cleanup, and more time to enjoy your cozy bowl of pasta bliss.

This recipe isn’t just about saving time though—it’s about delivering restaurant-style flavor with pantry staples. The garlic is gently sautéed until fragrant, then simmered with pasta and cream to create a silky, rich sauce that clings to every noodle. Whether you’re a garlic fanatic or just need a go-to pasta night option, this one’s bound to hit the mark.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

It’s hard not to fall in love with a dish that tastes like a five-star meal but requires less effort than ordering takeout. This pasta has the perfect balance of garlicky depth and creamy indulgence, all while being weeknight-friendly. Because it’s a one-pot wonder, the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, soaking up all the flavor without extra steps.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Want to toss in some spinach or grilled chicken? Go for it. Need it to be vegetarian? Just skip the meat. It’s a crowd-pleaser for families, couples, and even solo dinners that deserve a little extra care.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

The beauty of this creamy garlic pasta is that it plays well with almost any shape. Linguine, fettuccine, spaghetti, penne—they all soak up the sauce beautifully. For quicker cooking or gluten-free alternatives, shorter noodles or specialty pastas work just fine. Just keep an eye on the liquid ratio and adjust as needed.

Ingredients for the One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

The ingredients here are simple, but each one plays a role in creating that ultra-comforting dish. This is where quality really shines, especially in the garlic and parmesan.

• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Butter
• Vegetable or chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Pasta
• Fresh parsley (optional)

You’ll start by sautéing garlic in a blend of butter and olive oil to deepen its flavor. The broth adds body to the sauce while the cream brings the silkiness. Parmesan thickens and enhances everything, and a sprinkle of parsley gives it a fresh finish.

How To Make the One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Build the Garlic Base

Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely minced garlic and sauté until it’s golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Don’t let it brown too much or it can turn bitter.

Step 2: Add Liquid and Pasta

Pour in the broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add your pasta directly into the pot. Lower the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Simmer and Stir

Let the pasta cook in the liquid for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on your pasta type. Stir often and check for doneness. If needed, add a splash more broth to loosen the sauce.

Step 4: Finish With Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is creamy, stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for a minute or two so the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, topped with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired. It’s best enjoyed immediately when it’s at peak creaminess.

How to Serve and Store This Pasta

This recipe makes enough to feed 4 hungry people, or 6 if you’re serving it as a side. It pairs well with just about anything and works beautifully for casual dinners or when you want to impress someone with something deceptively simple.

Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream and warm it gently on the stovetop to bring back the creaminess.

What to Serve With One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta?

Garlic Bread

More garlic? Absolutely. A warm, crusty slice of garlic bread is ideal for scooping up leftover sauce.

Green Salad

A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish.

Grilled Chicken

Sliced grilled chicken breast makes it a more filling meal without overshadowing the pasta.

Roasted Veggies

Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add texture and color to your plate.

Shrimp

Pan-seared shrimp on top adds a restaurant-worthy touch and more protein.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Their umami flavor complements the creamy garlic sauce perfectly.

Lemon Zest or Chili Flakes

For a little brightness or heat, sprinkle some lemon zest or chili flakes over each serving.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Creamy Twist?

If this One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta hit the spot, you’ll definitely want to check out these other flavor-packed favorites:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe with hearty flavor.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a skillet take on comfort.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you crave cheese-forward pasta nights.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta that blends beef and cheesy goodness.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta with smoky flavor in every bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can whip it up on those busy weeknights.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add a protein? Maybe tossed in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes?

I love seeing how you make these meals your own. Got questions? Drop them below and let’s chat pasta perfection.

Explore fresh and cozy recipes like this every day on Mia Recipes on Pinterest—you’ll find dozens more that make dinnertime something to look forward to!

Print

Save this recipe on: