The Ultimate Creamy Pasta Recipes for Busy Nights

Life gets hectic, I totally get it! Between school drop-offs, soccer practice, and trying to squeeze in some “me time,” dinner can often feel like an afterthought. That’s why I’m so excited to share one of my go-to creamy pasta recipes that’s ready in about 30 minutes. These creamy pasta recipes are delicious and simple enough for even the busiest weeknights.

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love These Creamy Pasta Recipes

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients
• Customizable to your family’s preferences
• A guaranteed crowd-pleaser

What Makes This One of the Best Creamy Pasta Recipes?

I think it’s the perfect balance of flavors that makes this pasta recipe so special. The creaminess is undeniable, but the garlic and lemon add a brightness that keeps it from feeling too heavy. The texture is also fantastic; the pasta is perfectly coated in the luscious sauce, and the parmesan adds a salty, savory note. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that always hits the spot.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipes

• 200 grams dried pasta or 300 grams fresh pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 x chicken breast ((see notes))
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves (roughly chopped)
• 3/4 cup cream
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 50 grams parmesan (very finely grated)
• Lemon zest and extra rosemary to finish

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Creamy Pasta

1. Cook your pasta in well salted boiling water, undercooking by 1 minute. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Flatten the chicken breast to an even thickness (about 1-1.5cm), I do this by laying some plastic wrap over the top and hitting with a rolling pin.
3. Season the breast well with salt and pepper on each side then dust with the flour. [process photo]
4. Heat the olive oil in a fry pan over a medium high heat and fry the chicken for 2 mins each side (or until cooked through if yours is thicker).
5. Lightly wrap in foil and set aside.
6. Heat the butter over a medium heat and gently fry the garlic for a minute, it shouldn’t brown at all. [process photo]
7. Add the rosemary and cook for a further 30 seconds. [process photo]
8. Pour in the cream and bring to a very gentle simmer (lower the heat if you need, it shouldn’t be boiling). [process photo]
9. Add the parmesan in 2 or 3 separate lots, mixing and letting it melt in between each addition. [process photo]
10. Add the pepper and lemon juice and mix in quickly.
11. Add 1/4 cup of pasta water and let it gently simmer for a 2 – 3 minutes to thicken slightly. [process photo]
12. Add the cooked pasta, toss and let it gently bubble away for a minute or two. [process photo]
13. Slice the chicken then serve the pasta with the chicken pieces on top or tossed through. [process photo]
14. I like to top with some extra rosemary leaves, freshly grated lemon zest and some more parmesan if you wish. [process photo]

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions for Creamy Pasta

Substitution	Purpose
Cashew Cream	Dairy-free alternative to heavy cream
Coconut Cream	Another dairy-free alternative to heavy cream
Gluten-Free Pasta	For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease
Chicken Thighs	Richer flavor than chicken breasts

Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the richest flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook in the sauce.
• Reserve pasta water; it’s liquid gold for the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Creamy Pasta Recipes

• Sauce is too thin: Simmer longer to reduce, or add a cornstarch slurry.
• Pasta is overcooked: Undercook the pasta slightly.
• Sauce is too salty: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a touch of cream.

What to Serve with These Creamy Pasta Recipes

A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would be a lovely complement to this pasta dish. Garlic bread is always a welcome addition, or you could roast some vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a healthy side.

Storing Creamy Pasta: Best Practices

To store leftover creamy pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta, but the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do you make creamy pasta sauce thicker? Simmer longer to reduce, or add a cornstarch slurry.
• What is the best pasta to use for creamy sauce? I recommend using pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine, which hold the sauce well.
• How long does creamy pasta last in the fridge? Creamy pasta will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Can you freeze creamy pasta? How do you reheat it? Yes, you can freeze creamy pasta, but the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

A crisp Pinot Grigio would pair beautifully with this creamy chicken pasta. Its bright acidity and citrus notes will cut through the richness of the cream sauce and complement the lemon and rosemary flavors.

Equipment Suggestions for Creamy Pasta Recipes

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Fry pan for cooking chicken
• Mixing bowls
• Cheese grater
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Nutritional Information

Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate only and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine! It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. Now, I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe? What variations did you make? Let me know in the comments below! And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Happy cooking!