Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta

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Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta is the cozy-meets-refreshing dinner you didn’t know you needed. Silky strands of pasta are tossed in a rich yet bright sauce made with garlic, lemon juice, cream, and a hint of cheese, delivering a bold flavor that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Perfect for a quick weeknight comfort meal or an elegant dinner party dish, this pasta strikes the right balance of zesty freshness and creamy satisfaction. It’s a recipe you’ll return to over and over when you want something simple but flavorful.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta?

While spaghetti is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with fettuccine, linguine, or even bucatini. The goal is to use a pasta that can soak up the creamy sauce and deliver it in every forkful. Long noodles twirl beautifully and hold the silky sauce well, but even short pasta like rigatoni can work for a heartier bite.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta

Spaghetti or pasta of your choice – This is the base and canvas for the creamy lemon sauce to cling to.

Fresh garlic cloves – Adds deep, aromatic flavor and warmth to the dish.

Heavy cream – Brings the luscious texture and richness to balance the acidity of lemon.

Fresh lemon juice and zest – Provides a sharp citrus brightness that cuts through the cream.

Parmesan cheese – Adds nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce while enhancing umami.

Butter – Helps start the sauce base with garlic and adds velvety smoothness.

Salt and cracked black pepper – Essential for seasoning and flavor punch.

Fresh parsley (optional) – For a hint of color and fresh herbal finish.

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How To Make the Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, allowing the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Seasonings

Add the grated Parmesan and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce. Toss well to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while it’s warm and silky.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta

This pasta is best served right away when the sauce is fresh, glossy, and clings perfectly to every noodle. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy consistency.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the sauce and pasta separately a few hours ahead, but it’s best assembled just before serving to maintain texture and freshness.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can work, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. You can also try coconut cream for a dairy-free option with a unique twist.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Ensure any added cheese or cream is also gluten-free.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta would pair beautifully with the lemon-garlic cream sauce.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer a little longer before adding pasta, or add more cheese. A bit of pasta water also helps it cling better.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Not recommended. Cream-based sauces tend to separate when frozen and reheated.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this creamy lemon garlic pasta, you’ll enjoy these other flavorful favorites:

• Garlic Butter Beef Linguine in Creamy Parmesan Sauce
• Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
• Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo Recipe
• Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra on the lemon? Try a protein pairing? Or add fresh herbs?

I love seeing your takes on these recipes. Ask questions, share tips, or show off your version—let’s cook and inspire together!

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