Cozy up with a comforting bowl of creamy pasta! There’s nothing quite like a rich and indulgent pasta dish to hit the spot on a chilly evening or when you need a pick-me-up. In this collection, we’re sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the perfect blend of creaminess and flavor.
From classic garlic parmesan to bold and spicy cajun shrimp, these creamy pasta recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and indulgent or light and refreshing, there’s a recipe here to suit your taste buds. So grab a fork and get ready to dive into the creamiest pasta dishes around!
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Garlic Parmesan Cream Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. dried nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta and creamy sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Alfredo Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this classic Creamy Mushroom Alfredo Pasta recipe, featuring tender mushrooms and a velvety sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic over medium heat until tender.
3. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Stir until sauce thickens.
4. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
A flavorful and spicy twist on classic pasta, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and a kick of red pepper flakes. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, and white wine (if using). Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Cream Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and reserved pasta water. Stir to combine, bringing mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
5. Stir in chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant recipe that combines the richness of butter, pungency of garlic, and tanginess of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, lemon butter mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed) in a large serving bowl. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped artichoke hearts and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Pour in cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta, artichoke-spinach mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss until well coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this hearty and aromatic pasta dish, featuring succulent chicken, roasted garlic, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, peeled and chopped
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as parsley, basil, and oregano)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, toss the chopped garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the garlic mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and roasted garlic in olive oil until the onion is translucent.
6. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
7. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and mixed greens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta
A seasonal twist on classic pasta, this creamy pumpkin sage pasta combines the warmth of fall spices with the comfort of a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 medium pumpkin, cooked and pureed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sage. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Cream Cheese Pasta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of pesto with the richness of cream cheese, creating a decadent and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the pesto and cream cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the pesto-cream sauce.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the richness of Alfredo sauce and tender chicken, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine pasta
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and Cajun seasoning; cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Stir in Alfredo sauce and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Creamy Avocado Pasta
Enjoy a rich and creamy pasta dish packed with the nourishing goodness of avocados.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add diced avocado to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and dried basil. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy avocado sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta
Transform your pasta game with this decadent Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta recipe! Succulent lobster meat, aromatic garlic, and rich butter come together to create a luxurious dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add lobster meat to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly pink.
4. Add white wine (if using) and stir to deglaze the pan. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter mixture, and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Cream Pasta
Transform your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with a rich and tangy cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers in a baking dish lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt.
3. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add roasted red peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying pasta dish. Fresh tomatoes and basil combine with garlic and cream to create a rich, velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the garlic over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to break down.
4. Stir in chopped basil and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
A creamy and savory pasta salad that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the tanginess of ranch dressing, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, ranch dressing, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Garlic Herb Pasta
This classic pasta dish is elevated with a rich and creamy sauce infused with the flavors of garlic, parsley, and thyme. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in thyme and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and creamy sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Truffle Oil Mushroom Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Truffle Oil Mushroom Pasta recipe, featuring earthy mushrooms and a hint of luxurious truffle flavor. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
4. Stir in truffle oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
A spicy twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the flavors of cajun sausage with a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta (such as penne or linguine)
– 1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Spinach Feta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent spinach and feta stuffed shell recipe, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in. This creamy delight combines the richness of feta cheese with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in tender jumbo shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-feta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Brighten up your meal with this vibrant and creamy pasta dish, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. This recipe combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the brightness of lemon zest and juice, all wrapped up in a spring-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in ricotta cheese until smooth. Add lemon zest, juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and ricotta-lemon mixture. Toss until coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in comfort food with these creamy pasta recipes! From classic Alfredo to spicy Cajun shrimp, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Parmesan Cream Pasta, Creamy Mushroom Alfredo Pasta, or Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a flavorful twist. For a brighter take, opt for Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Cream Pasta or Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta. Other standout recipes include Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta, Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta, and Pesto Cream Cheese Pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and creamy or light and zesty, these 20 pasta recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.