Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk 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 Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- Chopped parsley or basil (for garnish)
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 to 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add Pasta & Liquid: Pour in the dry pasta, then add the milk and just enough water to barely cover the pasta. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently for 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has 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. If desired, add cream cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess and stir until fully incorporated.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use any type of long or short pasta you like, but cooking times may vary slightly.
- Adjust the amount of water to ensure the pasta cooks evenly without drying out or being too soupy.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with a plant-based alternative and omit Parmesan or use vegan cheese.
- The creamy sauce forms as the milk and water reduce while cooking, creating a rich coating on the pasta.
- Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
