Name: Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked rigatoni or penne pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 small clove garlic, minced; 1/4 cup broth (chicken or vegetable); 2 teaspoons lemon juice; Zest of 1/2 lemon; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped; Extra grated parmesan cheese

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If you are craving a dish that feels both refreshing and indulgent, this Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly balances the bright zing of lemon with a rich, velvety parmesan cream sauce, making every bite a delightful experience. With simple pantry staples and a quick prep time, this recipe transforms basic ingredients into a luscious, comforting meal that’s bright enough to brighten any dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of a red skillet filled with a smooth, creamy white sauce. In the center of the sauce, there is a small pile of finely grated white cheese. The skillet is placed on a white marbled surface, and the edges of the skillet are clean and bright red, contrasting with the white sauce inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each one plays an important role—from the tangy zest that wakes up the dish to the creamy textures that make it irresistibly smooth and satisfying.

8 ounces uncooked pasta (rigatoni or penne recommended): The sturdy shape holds onto the sauce beautifully for maximum flavor with every bite.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds a silky richness and helps create a smooth base for the sauce.
1/2 tablespoon flour: Acts as a thickening agent, giving the sauce that perfect creamy consistency.
1 small clove garlic, minced: Provides a subtle savory undertone that complements the lemon’s brightness.
1/4 cup broth (chicken or vegetable): Brings depth and a bit of umami, balancing the sauce’s richness.
2 teaspoons lemon juice + zest of 1/2 lemon: The star of the dish, infusing every mouthful with fresh citrus vibrance.
1 cup heavy or whipping cream: Creates the luscious, creamy texture that makes this pasta so comforting.
1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that melts into the sauce for indulgence.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance all the other flavors.
Garnish: fresh parsley & extra parmesan (optional): Bring a sprinkle of color and an added burst of freshness when serving.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Start with a pot of generously salted boiling water and cook your rigatoni or penne until just tender but still firm to the bite, known as al dente. This ensures the pasta has the perfect texture and won’t get soggy when tossed in the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Base of the Sauce

While your pasta cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes; this creates a roux that will thicken your sauce. The slight toasty aroma here signals you’re on the right track.

Step 3: Add Garlic, Broth, and Lemon

Next, stir in minced garlic and cook just until fragrant. Pour in the broth along with the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. Let this mixture bubble for a full minute to meld all those lively zesty notes with the rich base.

Step 4: Whisk in the Cream and Simmer

Slowly add the heavy cream, whisking steadily to combine everything into a smooth sauce. Cook until it thickens to your preferred consistency—this usually takes a few minutes. The creamy texture paired with lemony brightness will start to take shape here.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Seasonings

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese. This melts right into the warm sauce, adding depth and a nutty complexity. Taste and season generously with salt and pepper; don’t be shy—these are what elevate the flavor beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Drain the pasta but save a little pasta water—adding a splash to the sauce if it seems too thick helps achieve a silky coating. Toss the pasta directly in the skillet to coat evenly with the creamy lemon sauce. This step is where magic happens, each piece gets dressed to impress.

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe

A close-up top view of a shiny metal pan filled with creamy white sauce at the base with short thick tubular pasta rigatoni coated and sitting on top, sprinkled lightly with fine grated pale yellow cheese. The sauce looks thick and smooth, slightly pooling around the pasta edges. The pan handle is a glowing gold color, resting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and a subtle herbaceous note that lifts the dish. If you want to go all out, add an extra dusting of grated parmesan for that irresistible cheesy finish.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads that offer contrast and crunch, or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to keep things vibrant. A warm crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe in bright white bowls to highlight its lovely golden hue. Garnish with a thin lemon wedge on the side for a charming touch. For a fancier meal, pair it with a glass of chilled white wine, making every bite feel like a celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your pasta cools, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce can thicken in the fridge, so it’s normal that it might need a bit of loosening up during reheating.

Freezing

This creamy lemon sauce is best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container and use within one month. Be aware that the texture may slightly change after thawing due to the cream, so you might want to refresh it with a little cream or broth when reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or cream to revive the silky texture without breaking the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the delicate balance intact.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni or penne hold the sauce nicely, feel free to use any pasta you love such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or farfalle. Just keep in mind that thinner pasta may not hold the sauce as well but will still taste delicious.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of added butter to mimic richness, but the sauce will be less thick and creamy. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream and a dairy-free parmesan alternative, though this will alter the flavor profile.

How do I adjust the lemon flavor to my liking?

Start with the recommended lemon juice and zest, then taste the sauce before adding more. If you want a brighter punch, add another teaspoon of juice or more zest gradually to keep the balance perfect.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy tofu work beautifully when added on top or mixed in. They add substance and complement the creamy lemon sauce wonderfully.

What’s the best way to make the sauce thicker or thinner?

For a thicker sauce, cook it a bit longer to reduce or add a tad more flour at the start. To thin out the sauce, stir in reserved pasta water or extra broth a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe a try because it’s one of those quick, satisfying dishes that never fails to impress. The harmony of tangy lemon and rich cream brings comfort and freshness to your plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this pasta will become a fast favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every luscious bite!