Cream Cheese Pasta
A rich, creamy, and ultra-comforting pasta dish made with simple ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner, this cream cheese pasta is quick, versatile, and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 to 1 cup pasta water (as needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add cream cheese and a splash of pasta water, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. Add more pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese if using and mix until combined.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Notes
- Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter option.
- Low-fat cream cheese can be used, but the sauce may be thinner.
- To make it spicy, add red pepper flakes or chili oil.
- Great with added proteins like chicken, shrimp, or bacon.
- Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or roasted veggies for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cream-cheese-pasta/
