Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups milk (whole preferred, or any)
- 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 Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- Garnish: chopped parsley or basil
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: 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.
- Add Pasta & Liquid: Pour in the dry pasta, milk, and enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8–10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly reduced into a creamy sauce.
- Stir in Cheese & Seasoning: Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. For extra creaminess, incorporate cream cheese or sour cream at this stage.
- Serve: Garnish the creamy garlic pasta with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer sauce, but any milk type will work.
- Stir frequently during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the pot.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Adding cream cheese or sour cream is optional but enhances creaminess.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian