Description
This creamy and comforting cream cheese pasta is rich, silky, and packed with flavor. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup pasta water (reserved)
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water to use in the sauce.
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden, which releases its aromas without burning.
- Create Creamy Sauce: Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet and stir continuously until it melts completely and forms a smooth sauce.
- Add Pasta Water: Slowly pour in the reserved pasta water while whisking constantly to blend and create a silky, creamy sauce with the right consistency.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to ensure every strand is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta for a fresh, herbal finish and serve warm immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp to the pasta.
- Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer; rotini or penne work well.
- Freshly grated parmesan melts best and enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
