Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes pantry staples, making it both convenient and budget-friendly.
- Versatile: Pairs well with various pasta types and can be customized with added proteins or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) uncooked pasta (any shape)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook Pasta: In a saucepan over medium heat, bring about 6 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1-2 cups of the pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Garlic: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté lightly for about 30 seconds, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
- Prepare Sauce: Add softened cream cheese and 1 cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Whisk until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted. Season with ground black pepper and salt to taste. Remove from heat.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and chopped parsley to the sauce. Toss until the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Vegetable Mix-Ins: Enhance the dish with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Herb Infusion: Introduce fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water to thin out the sauce as needed. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best with cream cheese sauce?
This sauce pairs well with various pasta shapes, including fettuccine, penne, and spaghetti. Choose your favorite or what’s available.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
While full-fat cream cheese provides a richer flavor and creamier texture, low-fat versions can be used but may result in a slightly thinner sauce.
How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
Gradually add reserved pasta water to the sauce until you achieve your desired consistency. This starchy water helps maintain a smooth and silky sauce.
Is it necessary to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the sauce, enhancing its flavor and texture. Pre-grated varieties may not yield the same creamy result.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it separately from the pasta. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
How can I add a spicy kick to the sauce?
Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to introduce some heat.
Can I substitute Parmesan with other cheeses?
While Parmesan offers a distinct flavor, you can experiment with Romano or Asiago cheeses for a different taste profile.
How do I reheat leftovers without the sauce separating?
Reheat gently over low heat, adding a small amount of water or milk to help maintain the sauce’s consistency and prevent separation.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, this cream cheese pasta sauce is naturally gluten-free. Pair it with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Pasta Sauce offers a quick, creamy, and versatile option for pasta lovers. With its simple preparation and customizable nature, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether enjoyed on its own or enhanced with added proteins and vegetables, this sauce delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Cream Cheese Pasta Sauce
This Cream Cheese Pasta Sauce is a rich, velvety alternative to traditional Alfredo, made with simple ingredients in just 20 minutes. Perfect for weeknights, this versatile sauce pairs beautifully with any pasta and can be customized with proteins and vegetables for a satisfying meal
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) uncooked pasta (any shape)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil 6 cups of water, add salt, and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1-2 cups of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Garlic: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, then sauté garlic for 30 seconds without browning.
- Make the Sauce: Add softened cream cheese and 1 cup of pasta water, whisking until smooth.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Stir in grated Parmesan until melted. Season with black pepper and salt.
- Combine with Pasta: Toss the pasta with the sauce and chopped parsley. Add extra pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
Notes
- Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
- Adjust spice with red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
