Creamy Vegan Garlic Pasta Recipe in 20 minutes

Creamy pasta doesn’t need dairy. Many people think going vegan means giving up rich, comforting meals, but that’s not true at all. With a handful of simple ingredients, you can make a silky, delicious, and satisfying vegan garlic pasta that tastes even better than the original. The best part? You can find everything easily at Walmart, Tesco, Aldi, or any local supermarket. This recipe is quick, affordable, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Vegan Creamy Pasta Works Because the Method Matters

Most traditional creamy pasta relies on milk, cheese, butter, or cream. However, a vegan version becomes just as rich when you use the right technique. By combining oat milk, nutritional yeast, garlic, and a little starch, you get a sauce that is smooth, flavorful, and comforting.
Plus, it cooks in less than 20 minutes, making it ideal for new vegans and experienced cooks.

Let’s dive in.

⭐ Ingredients (Easy to Find in USA & UK)

For the Pasta

• 250g (8 oz) of pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
• 6–8 minced garlic cloves
• 1 chopped onion (optional)

For the Cream Sauce

• 1 cup (240 ml) unsweetened oat or soy milk
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp flour or cornstarch
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

Optional Toppings

• Fresh parsley
• Chili flakes
• Vegan parmesan
• Grilled tofu or mushrooms

⭐ How to Make It (Step-by-Step)

1. Cook the Pasta

First, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Then add the pasta and cook it until it becomes al dente. Before draining the pasta, save ½ cup of the pasta water. This will help make the sauce extra creamy.

2. Prepare the Garlic Base

Next, heat oil or vegan butter in a pan. Add the garlic and onions, then cook for 1–2 minutes until the aroma comes out. This step builds strong flavor and gives the dish its signature taste.

3. Mix the Cream Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the plant milk, flour or cornstarch, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Because the ingredients blend easily, you will get a smooth, lump-free mixture.

4. Cook the Sauce

Pour the mixture into the pan. Stir continuously while the sauce begins to thicken. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little pasta water. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, cook it for an extra minute.

5. Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the pan. Mix everything well so that each strand gets coated evenly. The sauce should look glossy and creamy.

6. Serve & Enjoy

Finally, top the pasta with parsley, chili flakes, or vegan parmesan. Serve it hot and creamy.

⭐ Why This Vegan Sauce Works So Well

• Oat milk gives natural creaminess
• Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor
• Pasta water improves texture
• Garlic boosts aroma and depth
• No dairy = no bloating

This is why many people prefer it over dairy pasta.

⭐ Variations (Customize Your Dish)

1. Creamy Spinach Pasta

Add spinach during step 4.

2. Mushroom Alfredo Style

Sauté mushrooms before adding the sauce.

3. High-Protein Version

Top with grilled tofu or chickpeas.

4. Spicy Garlic Pasta

Add chili flakes or hot sauce.

5. Lemon Garlic Pasta

Add lemon juice and a bit of zest.

⭐ Nutritional Info (Approx.)

• Calories: 370–420
• Protein: 10–14g
• Fat: 6–12g
• Carbs: 60–70g
• Fiber: 4–7g

This version has fewer calories and zero cholesterol compared to dairy-based pasta.

⭐ FAQ — Vegan Creamy Garlic Pasta

1. Can I use almond milk?

Yes. However, oat milk gives the creamiest texture.

2. Is nutritional yeast required?

No. It adds cheesy flavor, but the pasta will still taste great without it.

3. Can this recipe be gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and cornstarch.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of plant milk.

5. Can I make this oil-free?

Yes. Sauté with water instead of oil.

⭐ Conclusion

This vegan creamy garlic pasta is rich, quick, and incredibly satisfying. With the right technique, plant-based ingredients easily replace dairy without losing taste or texture. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this recipe delivers comfort, simplicity, and flavor every time.