Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Lemon Pasta is a bright and comforting dish that combines tangy lemon with a rich, velvety sauce. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a simple weeknight dinner that feels special.

Ingredients

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half (at room temperature)
• 8 oz. angel hair pasta (equal to ½ lb.)
• ½ fresh lemon (or 1.5 tablespoons lemon juice)
• Fresh parsley (to garnish)
• 1 tablespoon capers (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Shred the Parmesan cheese and set it aside to reach room temperature for easier melting.
2. Step 2: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and add capers if using. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Step 4: Slowly stir in the half and half, then bring to a gentle boil. Add the angel hair pasta, breaking noodles in half if needed to fit, or wait until softened enough to bend into the pan.
5. Step 5: Let the pasta simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds to prevent sticking. Then reduce heat to low.
6. Step 6: Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese while stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined. The sauce will be thinner at first but will thicken as it rests.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Toss the pasta to coat evenly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting texture.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• If you prefer a tangier sauce, increase the lemon juice gradually to taste.
• Capers add a nice briny contrast but can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or half and half to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy. Avoid microwaving straight from the fridge as it may dry out the sauce.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while angel hair cooks quickly and holds the sauce well, you can use spaghetti or fettuccine if preferred. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is half and half necessary, or can I use milk?

Half and half gives a creamier, richer sauce. You can substitute whole milk, but the sauce may be thinner. To thicken, add a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water before adding the milk.

Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.7 from 145 reviews

• Author: Jack
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy lemon pasta is a quick and delicious dish featuring tender angel hair pasta cooked in a rich sauce made from butter, garlic, chicken broth, half and half, and Parmesan cheese. Finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley for a bright, fresh flavor, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both comforting and refreshing.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese and Dairy

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 3 Tablespoons butter
• 1 cup half and half (at room temperature)

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz. angel hair pasta (equal to 1/2 lb.)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• ½ fresh lemon or 1.5 tablespoons lemon juice

Garnish and Optional

• Fresh parsley (to garnish)
• 1 tablespoon capers (optional)

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Parmesan cheese: Shred the Parmesan cheese and set it aside to allow it to come to room temperature, which helps it melt smoothly into the sauce.
2. Cook the garlic: Melt the butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add broth and capers: Pour in the chicken broth and, if using, add the tablespoon of capers for a briny touch. Stir to combine.
4. Incorporate half and half and add pasta: Slowly stir in the half and half, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the angel hair pasta; you can break the noodles in half or wait until they soften enough to bend into the skillet.
5. Simmer the pasta: Let the pasta cook at a simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds to prevent sticking. Reduce heat to low once the pasta is nearly tender.
6. Add Parmesan cheese to finish the sauce: Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and well-combined. The sauce will initially be thin but will thicken as it stands and as the pasta absorbs it.
7. Finish with lemon and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice. Toss the pasta to evenly coat it with the sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

• For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• Ensure the half and half is at room temperature before adding, to prevent curdling.
• Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly, so watch it closely to avoid overcooking.
• The sauce thickens as it cools, so serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
• Capers add a salty, tangy flavor but can be omitted if preferred.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: creamy lemon pasta, angel hair pasta, quick pasta recipe, easy pasta sauce, lemon pasta, Parmesan pasta, one pan pasta