Warm, creamy comfort fills the kitchen as the aroma of garlic wafts through the air. With just a handful of ingredients, this 10-MINUTE CREAM CHEESE PASTA can transform a simple weeknight dinner into a delightful feast. The magic lies in its creamy emulsion, which coats the pasta in a luscious sauce without requiring an elaborate prep or cooking time.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort. If you’re looking to prepare in advance, the sauce can be made ahead of time, and the pasta cooked fresh just before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It takes only 10 minutes from start to finish.
- The sauce features a creamy texture that clings perfectly to any pasta.
- Fresh garlic allows for a rich and aromatic flavor profile.
- It’s easily customizable for spice levels with optional chili flakes.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal:
For the Pasta
- 1/2 lb (225 grams) pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli…)
For the Sauce
- 3/4 cup (160 grams) cream cheese*
- 1/4 cup (30 grams) grated parmesan, plus more to serve
- 1 Tbsp olive oil, plus more to serve
- 1-2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) cooking water, plus more if needed
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4-1/2 tsp chili flakes, or according to taste (optional)
*Use low-fat or dairy-free cream cheese as an alternative.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use any pasta shape you prefer.
- Substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- Olive oil can be swapped for butter for a richer taste.
- Fresh herbs like basil can enhance flavor.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create this delicious meal.
1. Boil pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. Reserve water
Right before draining, reserve a cup of starchy pasta water.
3. Sauté garlic
In a large skillet, warm 1 Tbsp of olive oil and gently fry the garlic (plus a pinch of chili flakes if desired) for 2-3 minutes on low flame. Do not let the garlic burn.
4. Make sauce
Stir the cream cheese and about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water into the skillet. Mix until combined and creamy. Add parmesan cheese and stir well; your pasta sauce is ready.
5. Combine
Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce, adding more cooking water if needed for a smooth consistency.
6. Serve
Serve immediately with a drizzle of olive oil, extra parmesan, and freshly ground black pepper (omit chili flakes if you prefer). Enjoy!
How to Store It
Fridge: store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, as cream cheese doesn’t freeze well.
Reheat: warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding water if necessary, for about 5 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Always reserve pasta water before draining; it’s crucial for sauce consistency.
- Adjust garlic and chili flakes to cater to your flavor preferences.
- Stir the pasta in the sauce on low heat to prevent burning.
- Reheat gently to maintain creaminess; avoid high heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside garlic bread for an extra indulgence.
- Great for a quick lunch or dinner gathering with friends.
