There are nights when you just want dinner on the table fast, but you still want it to taste like you spent hours cooking.

That’s exactly why I love this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta. Everything — tender noodles, rich garlicky sauce, and a touch of cheese — comes together in a single pot, so cleanup is a breeze and the flavors are incredible.

It’s cozy, comforting, and perfect for any weeknight when you need something satisfying without the stress.

The sauce is silky, the garlic gives it a flavorful punch, and every bite feels like a little indulgence.

Quick, easy, and utterly delicious, this pasta proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pot simplicity – No draining, no fuss. Everything cooks together for easy cleanup.
• Velvety garlic sauce – The starch from the pasta helps create a naturally creamy texture.
• Quick and versatile – Ready in under 25 minutes, perfect on its own or with veggies or chicken.
• Made with pantry staples – You likely already have everything you need.

“Pro Tip: Always sauté your garlic gently over medium heat — never high — to avoid bitterness and bring out its natural sweetness.”

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for more flavor)
• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly.

“Pro Tip: Garlic burns quickly — once you smell that rich aroma, it’s ready.”

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Step 2: Add the Broth and Pasta

Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add your pasta directly into the pan, breaking it in half if needed to fit. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the liquid and releases starch, which helps create the creamy sauce naturally.

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Step 3: Season and Simmer

Add salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Lower the heat slightly and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring every few minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has reduced.

If it’s drying out too quickly, add a splash of broth or water.

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Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked and coated in a glossy sauce, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the cream and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese. Stir well until everything blends into a smooth, velvety sauce.

The cheese should melt completely, making the pasta rich and creamy.

“Pro Tip: Add the cream off heat for an extra silky texture — it prevents curdling and keeps the sauce luscious.”

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Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once the sauce thickens slightly, remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you’d like.

Serve immediately while hot — the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

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Variations to Try

Add Protein – Turn this creamy garlic pasta into a heartier meal by tossing in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon. Each adds its own flavor and texture, making the dish perfect for lunch or dinner.

Make It Green – For a fresh, vibrant touch, stir in baby spinach, kale, or peas toward the end of cooking. The gentle heat wilts the greens just enough to keep their color and nutrients intact while adding a pop of brightness.

Add a Kick – Give your pasta a subtle layer of heat by sprinkling in red pepper flakes. This small addition enhances the depth of flavor without overpowering the creamy sauce.

Go Dairy-Free – Enjoy a lighter, dairy-free version by substituting coconut milk for the cream and using a plant-based Parmesan alternative. You’ll still get a rich, creamy sauce with all the flavor but a bit easier on digestion.

“Pro Tip: Keep the base simple — that’s what makes it so adaptable to whatever you have on hand.”

What to Pair It With

This creamy garlic pasta is rich, indulgent, and full of flavor, so pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Here are some ideas:

Garlic Bread or Herb Focaccia – Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, perfect for soaking up every bit of creamy sauce.

Fresh Green Salad – A simple mix of arugula, spinach, or romaine with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted or Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add color, texture, and a healthy crunch.

Protein Add-Ons – Grilled chicken, shrimp, or pan-seared salmon complement the pasta while making it a complete meal.

Wine Pairing – A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully with the creamy garlic flavors.

These pairings turn a simple pasta dish into a full, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special dinners.

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Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Add a splash of milk or broth before reheating to bring back the creaminess.
• Freezing: Not recommended — cream sauces can separate when thawed.

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Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is the definition of comfort made simple. It’s silky, flavorful, and made with ingredients you probably already have. Every bite tastes indulgent — without the heavy cleanup or complicated steps.

Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, it’s one of those recipes you’ll make again and again because it’s just that easy and delicious.