When you want something warm, filling, and incredibly satisfying without dealing with a sink full of dishes, this creamy one-pot pasta is the answer. Everything cooks together in a single pan, which means less cleanup and more flavor because the pasta absorbs all the rich, savory goodness as it simmers.
This recipe is perfect for busy evenings, lazy weekends, or anytime you need a reliable comfort meal that comes together fast. It’s creamy, cheesy, and customizable, so you can tweak it based on what you already have in your kitchen.
Quick Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 3–4
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup spinach or broccoli (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the garlic
In a large deep pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add liquids and pasta
Pour in broth, milk, cream, salt, pepper, and seasoning. Stir well, then add pasta. Bring mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Cook pasta
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally so pasta doesn’t stick. The liquid will reduce and become creamy.
4. Add cheese and veggies
Once pasta is tender, stir in parmesan cheese and vegetables if using. Cook another 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats pasta.
5. Serve immediately
Turn off heat and let sit 2 minutes. Sauce thickens more as it rests.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Pasta
- Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.
- Use freshly grated cheese for smoother sauce.
- If sauce gets too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
- Slightly undercook pasta if you prefer firmer texture.
Easy Variations
- High-protein version: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Spicy twist: Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Low-fat option: Replace cream with extra milk.
- Extra flavor: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms.
Approximate Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 14g
- Carbs: 48g
- Fat: 19g
Serving Ideas
This pasta pairs perfectly with:
- Garlic bread
- Side salad
- Roasted vegetables
You can also top it with extra cheese or herbs for a restaurant-style finish.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes. Any short pasta works best because it cooks evenly in one pot.
Can I store leftovers?
Store in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use plant milk, dairy-free butter, and vegan cheese.
Why cook pasta in sauce instead of water?
Cooking pasta directly in the liquid lets it absorb flavor, making the dish richer and more delicious.
This is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again — simple, comforting, and flexible enough to match whatever ingredients you have on hand.
