Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This creamy garlic pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. With a rich, garlicky sauce and tender pasta, it’s a satisfying meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups milk (whole preferred, or use any you have)
• 1 cup water (or as needed 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 basil

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pan, melt the butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
2. Step 2: Pour in the milk and water, then add the pasta. The liquid should just cover the pasta; add more water if needed. Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has mostly absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. If using, add the cream cheese or sour cream for an extra creamy texture. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute to thicken. Serve topped with chopped parsley or basil if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce.
• For a lighter version, substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk or another plant-based milk.
• Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables for a heartier meal.
• If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen it.

Storage

Store leftover creamy garlic pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a little milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with various shapes like penne, fettuccine, or even rotini. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.

What if I don’t have cream cheese or sour cream?

You can skip them entirely or add a little extra Parmesan cheese to maintain creaminess. The sauce will still be rich and flavorful.

Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 68 reviews

This Creamy Garlic Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Featuring tender pasta enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce made with milk, Parmesan cheese, and a subtle mix of Italian herbs, this recipe balances comforting flavors with ease of preparation. Optional additions like cream cheese or sour cream add extra richness while fresh parsley or basil provide a bright herbal finish.

• Author: Zane
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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Pasta and Liquids

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
• 2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any you have)
• 1 cup water (or as needed to just cover the pasta)

Flavorings and Dairy

• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Optional Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
• Garnish: chopped parsley or basil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta: In a large skillet or deep pan, combine the pasta, milk, and water. The liquid should just cover the pasta to allow it to cook properly and absorb the flavors.
2. Add Butter and Garlic: Add the butter or olive oil and minced garlic to the pan with the pasta and liquids. This will infuse the pasta with a rich garlic aroma as it cooks.
3. Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 12-15 minutes depending on pasta shape and size.
4. Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Lower the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts evenly, creating a creamy sauce coating the pasta.
5. Add Optional Creaminess: If using, fold in cream cheese or sour cream now to enhance the creaminess and flavor. Stir well until fully incorporated and warmed through.
6. Final Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh herbal note.
7. Serve: Plate the creamy garlic pasta immediately while hot for best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Choose pasta shapes like penne, linguine, or spaghetti for best absorption of the creamy sauce.
• Whole milk helps achieve a richer sauce, but you can substitute with any milk available; avoid skim for best creaminess.
• Stir often during cooking to prevent the milk from scorching or pasta from sticking to the pan.
• Adding cream cheese or sour cream is optional but highly recommended for a thicker, richer texture.
• Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes more flavorful than pre-grated cheese.
• Garnishing with fresh herbs adds brightness and a pop of color to the dish.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Keywords: creamy garlic pasta, easy garlic pasta, one pan pasta, creamy pasta sauce, quick pasta recipe, Italian pasta dishes