Are you ready to indulge in a world of rich, creamy, and indulgent pasta dishes? Look no further! Creamy pasta recipes are a staple in many cuisines around the globe, and for good reason. They’re comforting, satisfying, and can be easily customized to suit any taste or dietary need. In this article, we’ll explore 20 decadent and deliciously creamy pasta recipes that will take your meals from ordinary to extraordinary.
From classic combinations like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta and Alfredo Fettuccine with Mushrooms, to more adventurous options like Spinach and Artichoke Creamy Pasta and Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for some new ideas to add to your repertoire, this list is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the bold flavors of garlic and parmesan with the comfort of a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (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, sauté garlic in butter over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in 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 and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Alfredo Fettuccine with Mushrooms
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the comfort of fettuccine alfredo with the earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms. This recipe is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 6 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked fettuccine, mushroom mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– 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.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and heavy cream. Heat over low-medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta and creamy tomato sauce. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Creamy Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the creaminess of spinach and artichoke with al dente penne pasta. Perfect for a comforting dinner or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and artichoke hearts in heavy cream over medium heat until the mixture simmers.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined with the creamy sauce.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the creamy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This spicy pasta dish combines the flavors of cajun seasoning with rich cream and juicy chicken, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 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 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of succulent lobster meat. This rich and indulgent recipe combines the comfort food classic with the luxury of fresh lobster, creating a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and lobster meat with the cheesy sauce; transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated cheese if desired; bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Creamy Lemon Butter Pasta
This vibrant and flavorful pasta dish combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of butter, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add lemon juice and stir to combine.
3. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet in small increments, whisking constantly to create a creamy sauce.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and creamy lemon butter sauce. Toss to coat, adding chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta
Savor the flavors of Italy with this rich and creamy pasta dish, featuring penne pasta, cherry tomatoes, and spinach in a velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Add the cooked pasta, spinach, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of grilled chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and al dente pasta for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, pesto sauce, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the creamy pesto sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Carbonara with Pancetta
This classic Italian dish gets a rich and creamy twist with the addition of pancetta, adding a smoky depth to the traditional bacon. This recipe is quick, easy, and indulgent enough for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cooked pancetta.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Avocado Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the healthy fats of avocado with the comfort of a classic carbonara. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti 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 heat. Add the mashed avocado and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly softened.
3. Crack in the eggs and stir gently until they are cooked through.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and avocado mixture. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta
This classic Italian-American dish is a quick and flavorful option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With succulent shrimp, garlicky sauce, and al dente pasta, this creamy scampi pasta is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp (30ml) white wine (optional)
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 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 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet, leaving garlic butter sauce behind.
5. Add white wine (if using) and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta
A comforting fall-inspired pasta dish that combines roasted butternut squash with a rich and creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree the roasted squash with vegetable broth, heavy cream, and dried sage.
5. Combine cooked pasta, squash sauce, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
This recipe is a classic take on a summer favorite, combining the flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil with a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in chopped basil and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff Pasta
This rich and creamy pasta dish combines sautéed mushrooms with tender beef strips and a flavorful sauce, all served over a bed of al dente pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté beef strips until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta and beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake
A rich and satisfying casserole that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and creamy sauce in a baking dish. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Bacon and Pea Pasta
Get ready to savor a comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of peas with the smokiness of bacon, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the peas to the skillet and cook until they’re tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, bacon, peas, and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. A perfect weeknight meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
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 medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and basil to the skillet. Stir until smooth and heated through.
4. Combine cooked pasta and sauce in the skillet. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta
Warm up with a comforting fall-inspired dish that combines the flavors of roasted pumpkin, earthy sage, and rich cream sauce on a bed of al dente pasta. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a seasonal gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), roasted and pureed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions 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 chopped sage. Bring to a simmer.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Chipotle Pasta with Grilled Corn
This spicy and savory pasta dish combines the smoky heat of chipotles with the sweetness of grilled corn, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ear of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until slightly charred.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine heavy cream, chipotle peppers, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to simmer over medium heat.
4. Add grilled corn to the creamy sauce and stir to combine.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the chipotle-corn sauce. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy pasta delights! This collection of 20 decadent recipes will satisfy your cravings and transport you to a state of culinary bliss. From classic combinations like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta and Alfredo Fettuccine with Mushrooms, to bold twists like Lobster Mac and Cheese and Creamy Chipotle Pasta with Grilled Corn, there’s something for every pasta lover. With ingredients ranging from sun-dried tomatoes to pancetta, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
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