Creamy Lemon Pasta is the perfect choice for a quick and flavorful meal that brings a touch of brightness to your dinner table. This recipe features the zesty freshness of lemon, paired with a rich and velvety sauce that clings beautifully to tender pasta. Made with simple ingredients like Parmesan, heavy cream, and garlic, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that can be easily customized with proteins like chicken or shrimp.

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked pasta (rigatoni or penne recommended)
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 small clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup chicken broth, vegetable broth, or dry white wine
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice + zest of 1/2 lemon
1 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish: fresh parsley and extra Parmesan (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a tablespoon of pasta water before draining.
Make the Roux:
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until a smooth paste forms.
Add Flavors:
Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth (or wine) and add the lemon juice and zest. Let the mixture bubble for about 1 minute.
Create the Sauce:
Whisk in the heavy cream and let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Season and Combine:
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency.
Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: The tangy lemon juice and zest complement the rich cream for a balanced and vibrant taste.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Easily pair with your favorite proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Tips

Fresh Lemon is Key: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
Don’t Skip the Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the creamy texture.
Reserve Pasta Water: Adding a splash helps emulsify the sauce and ensures it clings to the pasta.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Additions: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier dish.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Different Pasta Shapes: Try fettuccine, linguine, or even spaghetti for a different texture.

FAQs

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Yes, but freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and melts more smoothly.

What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a bit of the reserved pasta water or more cream to adjust the consistency.

Can I reheat this dish?
Yes, but reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to prevent the sauce from separating.

Serving and Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Serve with garlic bread for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
Complement the flavors with a chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.