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10-Minute Cream Cheese Pasta Recipe

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4 from 8 reviews

A quick and creamy pasta dish made with cream cheese, garlic, and parmesan, ready in just 10 minutes. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a rich and satisfying meal with a smooth, velvety sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting treat in no time.

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb (225 grams) pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli…)
  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) grated parmesan, plus more to serve
  • 1/4-1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Dairy & Oils

  • 3/4 cup (160 grams) cream cheese
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil, plus more to serve

Other

  • 1-2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) cooking water from pasta, plus more if needed

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes depending on the type of pasta.
  2. Reserve Pasta Water: Just before draining the pasta, save about a cup of the starchy cooking water; this will be used to create the sauce.
  3. Prepare Garlic and Chili Flakes: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. Gently sauté the minced garlic and a pinch of chili flakes (if using) for 2-3 minutes, making sure the garlic does not brown or burn for a smooth flavor.
  4. Make the Cream Cheese Sauce: Stir in the cream cheese and about 1/2 cup of the reserved starchy pasta water into the skillet. Mix well to form a creamy, emulsified sauce. Add the grated parmesan cheese and stir thoroughly to combine everything evenly.
  5. Toss Pasta in Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta and immediately add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat all the pasta pieces. Add more reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Serve the pasta immediately, drizzled with extra olive oil and topped with freshly grated parmesan and freshly ground black pepper if you didn’t use chili flakes. Enjoy your quick and delicious cream cheese pasta!

Notes

  • Be careful not to burn the garlic; keep the heat low for a mild flavor.
  • You can adjust the consistency of the sauce with more reserved pasta water if it becomes too thick.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
  • This dish is great served immediately as the sauce thickens if left to stand.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the chili flakes according to your preference.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 3 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://monicarecipes.com/10-minute-cream-cheese-pasta-recipe/