Description
A creamy and indulgent pasta dish made with a tangy cream cheese sauce, butter, garlic, and parmesan, finished with a garnish of fresh parsley or basil.
Ingredients
- Pasta (your favorite variety)
- Cream Cheese (for a creamy, tangy sauce)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (for savory, cheesy depth)
- Garlic (for an aromatic boost)
- Butter (for a rich and smooth sauce)
- Fresh Parsley or Basil (for garnish and freshness)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water for the sauce.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese. Allow it to melt, stirring constantly, to create a smooth sauce.
- Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted into the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Finish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately.
Notes
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, sauté mushrooms or spinach and add them to the sauce.
- For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon for a heartier dish.
- Feel free to use any pasta shape, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti, to pair with the creamy sauce.
- If making ahead, store the sauce separately and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
