Name: Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe

This pasta recipe is:

Quick and easy — on the table in ~20 minutes
Bright and zesty thanks to fresh lemon juice and zest
Comforting and creamy, yet fresh‑tasting
Flexible — add chicken, shrimp, or extra veggies if you like

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
13.5 oz package spaghetti
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons chopped fresh garlic
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon black pepper
¾ cup whipping cream
½ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 cup parmesan cheese
Basil and fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Reserved pasta water (as needed)

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until just al dente and reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add the chopped garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Sauté gently for about 10 minutes, being careful not to brown the garlic.
Add the lemon zest and whipping cream to the skillet. Stir and let the sauce thicken slightly.
Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice.
Add the drained pasta directly to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen and make the sauce silky.
Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to combine.
Garnish with basil and parsley if desired, then serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a heartier meal
Extra Veggies: Stir in baby spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes for more heat
Butter Boost: Stir in a tablespoon or two of butter for a richer sauce

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in the microwave or on stovetop. Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to refresh the sauce and prevent dryness.

FAQs

How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid high heat — cook the garlic on low and add the lemon juice off heat to keep the cream smooth.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, almost any shape works — spaghetti, linguine, penne, or rigatoni will all be delicious.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, the basic recipe is vegetarian. To keep it meat‑free, skip adding chicken or shrimp.

Can I make the sauce without cream?

You can use pasta cooking water and cheese alone for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be as rich.

What type of lemon should I use?

Fresh lemons are best. Meyer lemons are sweeter and less acidic if available.

Can I freeze leftover pasta?

Creamy sauces don’t freeze well — texture and separation issues can occur. Refrigeration is best.

What cheese is best for this pasta?

Freshly grated parmesan melts best and gives the most flavor.

How do I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to taste.

Can I use pre‑minced garlic?

Yes, just adjust the amount to taste. Fresh is ideal for flavor.

What sides go well with this pasta?

A simple green salad or crusty bread pairs perfectly.

Conclusion

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta is a delightful balance of citrus brightness and rich creaminess, all ready in about 20 minutes. Its simplicity and bold flavor make it perfect for both busy weeknights and casual dinner gatherings. With easy tweaks to add protein or veggies, it’s a versatile recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen.