This Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta is a refreshing meal that’s super simple to whip up! Just imagine silky pasta coated in a tangy lemon sauce, rich and smooth, making every bite a delight.
If you love bright flavors, this dish is a winner! I like to toss some fresh herbs on top to make it even better. Trust me, it’s impossible to resist seconds with this one! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rigatoni for this recipe because its shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly. However, you can swap it with any other short pasta like penne or fusilli if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a great flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a fantastic substitute. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key for that bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for maximum flavor.
How Do I Make the Sauce Smooth and Creamy?
Achieving that smooth, creamy sauce is simple if you follow these tips! It’s all about combining ingredients thoughtfully.
- Start by sautéing garlic in butter over medium heat. Be careful not to burn it as it can get bitter.
- Next, add heavy cream and let it simmer gently. This helps thicken the sauce and marry the flavors. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.
- When you add the cheese, stir it in well until melted. This helps create a creamy texture. If it’s too thick, slowly add a bit of reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Finally, incorporating lemon zest and juice last maintains their fresh flavor; mix well for even distribution!
Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni or other tube pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 25 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time.
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 (or your choice of tube pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After it’s cooked, drain the pasta but remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, it’s time to make it creamy! Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook it for around 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the cream thicken a little and blend with the flavors.
4. Add Cheese and Lemon:
Once the cream is simmering, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted. Next, add in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Mix everything well, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing to coat the rigatoni evenly with the creamy lemon sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of your reserved pasta water to reach your preferred consistency.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and some freshly chopped parsley or basil if you like. Enjoy every delicious bite!
This dish is bright and tangy, and it’s so easy to make. Perfect for impressing friends or a cozy night in. Happy cooking!
FAQ: Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni works wonderfully, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make a dairy-free version, you can replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of water or additional cream to help loosen the sauce as it can thicken upon cooling.
How Can I Add More Flavor to This Dish?
Experiment by adding ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or grilled chicken for added flavor and nutrition. Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley also elevate the dish and add freshness!
