Introduction
Welcome to a cozy culinary adventure! This 10-Minute Cream Cheese Pasta recipe is a delightful weeknight meal that brings comfort to your dinner table in no time. With its rich and creamy sauce clinging to every strand of pasta, it’s perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this quick and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 200g pasta of your choice
- 100g cream cheese
- 1 cup pasta cooking water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add in your favorite pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s beautifully al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, drizzle olive oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet, letting it sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
- If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the chili flakes and stir for an additional 30 seconds to release their bold flavor.
- Once your pasta is ready, reserve 1 cup of that starchy pasta cooking water, then drain the rest.
- Transfer the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the garlic and chili flakes, allowing it to soak up all that garlic goodness.
- Now, add the cream cheese and a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet.
- Stir everything together over low heat until the cream cheese melts into a rich, creamy sauce that beautifully coats the pasta. Don’t hesitate to add more pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste, giving it a good mix to combine all those flavors.
- Serve your creamy pasta hot, garnished with a handful of fresh basil or parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this dish! You can add sautéed vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. For a protein boost, diced chicken or shrimp could make delightful additions. And don’t shy away from trying different herbs or spices to suit your taste!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe relies on the simple techniques of boiling and sautéing. Mastering the art of cooking pasta to al dente ensures a perfect texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Remember to reserve that pasta water! It’s a game-changer for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
FAQ
Can I make this pasta dish vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese option.
What can I serve with this pasta?
This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a light salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Conclusion
In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a comforting bowl of rich and creamy pasta that’s both satisfying and uncomplicated. This 10-Minute Cream Cheese Pasta is a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Enjoy each bite and share the warmth of home-cooked comfort food!