This Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta is bright and tangy, perfect for a quick dinner. With just a few ingredients, you’ll enjoy a creamy sauce that clings to every noodle!
The fresh lemon really gives it a zesty kick, and I love how it comes together in no time. It’s a go-to meal for those busy nights when you want something tasty without a fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni Pasta: Rigatoni works great as its ridges hold the sauce well. You can also use spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne if you prefer another pasta shape.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Just keep in mind the sauce will be slightly thinner.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great alternatives.
Lemon: Use fresh lemons for zest and juice; it makes a big difference in flavor! If you’re out of lemons, bottled lemon juice can be a quick fix, but fresh is best.
Why is Garlic Important in This Recipe?
Garlic adds depth to the creamy sauce and enhances the overall flavor of the pasta. To prepare garlic:
- Mince the garlic finely to release the oils.
- Sauté it quickly to avoid burning, as it can turn bitter.
Adding the garlic at the beginning of cooking allows its aroma to infuse the butter and cream, setting a flavorful base for your dish. Enjoy!
How to Make Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the pasta, and another 10 minutes to make the creamy sauce and bring everything together. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. This will help adjust the sauce later if needed!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the meantime, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it brown, as we want it to stay fragrant and flavorful.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream into the skillet. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes until you notice it thickening slightly.
4. Add the Cheese:
Now, lower the heat and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and combined, creating a lovely creamy sauce.
5. Season it Up:
Add the lemon zest and juice to the sauce, mixing well. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This is what gives the dish its bright flavor!
6. Combine with Pasta:
With the sauce ready, add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy lemon sauce. If it looks too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
7. Serve It Up:
Finally, serve your delicious creamy lemon pasta warm. Feel free to sprinkle more grated Parmesan cheese on top and add some chopped fresh parsley for a lovely garnish.
Enjoy your bright and creamy lemon pasta—it’s simple to make and oh-so-indulgent!
Can I Use Half-and-Half Instead of Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be slightly thinner and less rich. If you prefer a creamier texture, heavy cream is the best choice!
Can I Substitute the Parmesan Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano as excellent substitutes. Just ensure they’re freshly grated for the best flavor.
How to Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to enhance the dish with some veggies. Just cook them alongside the garlic for a delicious twist!
