This Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta is like a hug in a bowl! With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a zesty and smooth sauce that brings a burst of freshness to your dinner.
The best part? It’s super quick to make! I love tossing it together for a last-minute meal. Just pasta, cream, and lemon juice, and you’re all set for a delicious meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni is my favorite for this recipe because its shape holds the creamy sauce well. However, you can absolutely use other short pasta like penne or fusilli if that’s what you have on hand.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream works well, though the flavor will change a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: A must for that cheesy goodness! If you want a stronger flavor, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Grated cheese melts better than shredded, so adjust accordingly.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest add brightness. If you run out of fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh really makes a difference in flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal to control the salt content. If you’re using salted butter, be sure to taste before adding extra salt to the sauce.
How Do You Make a Creamy Sauce with Just a Few Ingredients?
A creamy sauce is simple when you follow the right steps. Here’s how to ensure you get that velvety finish without lumps:
- Start with a medium heat when melting the butter. Add in the cream and garlic powder, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Simmer just enough to let the cream thicken, but don’t let it boil. Boiling can separate the fat and lead to a grainy texture.
- Incorporate the cheese off the heat to ensure it melts smooth without clumping. Stir continuously to combine everything into a creamy mix.
- If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, which helps to adjust the consistency without losing flavor.
Keep these techniques in mind, and you’ll have a delicious creamy sauce every time! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni or other short pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy lemon pasta will take about 30 minutes to make! You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes to cook everything until it’s perfectly creamy and ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your rigatoni (or any short pasta you prefer) and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, make sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Once melted, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the garlic powder. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. Keep stirring frequently to avoid burning the sauce, as we want it to thicken slightly.
3. Combine Cheese and Lemon:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is nice and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some of that reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Season and Toss:
Season your delicious cream sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with that creamy lemon goodness!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy lemon pasta right away! Garnish with additional grated Parmesan, some lemon zest for that extra zing, and finely chopped parsley if you like. Dive in and enjoy the bright and satisfying flavors of this easy dish!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni works beautifully, you can substitute it with any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly based on the pasta shape.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking to reduce the calories, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk combined with a bit of cornstarch can mimic the creaminess, though the flavor will be different.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce, as it can thicken when stored.
Can I Add Vegetables or Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in cooked vegetables like spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes. For added protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms complement the creamy lemon sauce wonderfully.
