Name: Creamy Lemon Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Zest of 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

I love making this Creamy Lemon Pasta when I want something comforting yet bright and fresh. The silky sauce coats every strand of pasta beautifully, and the lemon adds a light, zesty balance that keeps the dish from feeling heavy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s quick, simple, and incredibly flavorful. I enjoy how the creaminess pairs with the sharp citrus notes, creating a pasta that feels both indulgent and refreshing. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when I want a cozy meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces pasta
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

I start by cooking the pasta in well-salted water according to package instructions until al dente. I reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, I melt the butter with the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the garlic and cook gently until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

I pour in the heavy cream and let it warm for a few minutes, then stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. I reduce the heat and stir until the sauce is smooth.

I add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water and toss until everything is well coated. I stir in the Parmesan cheese and add more pasta water as needed to reach a silky consistency. I finish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings And Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add spinach or peas for extra color and freshness. When I want more protein, I mix in grilled chicken or shrimp. I also enjoy using half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

What pasta works best for this recipe?

I like using spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine because they hold the sauce well.

Can I make this pasta dairy-free?

I replace the cream with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheese when needed.

Is this pasta very lemony?

I find it balanced, and I adjust the lemon juice depending on how bright I want it.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I prefer it fresh, but I reheat leftovers gently with extra liquid.

Can I add herbs besides parsley?

I sometimes add basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

I keep coming back to this Creamy Lemon Pasta because it’s comforting, bright, and easy to make. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal ingredients, making it a favorite whenever I want a cozy yet refreshing meal.