Looking for a comforting dinner that’s sure to warm your belly and your heart? Look no further than these 20 creamy leek pasta recipes! Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and simple or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered. From rich and creamy carbonara to light and zesty lemon-infused dishes, our collection of leek-based pasta recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through the world of creamy leeks and pasta, exploring 20 different recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this humble ingredient. From classic combinations like leek and mushroom to more unexpected pairings like leek and goat cheese, we’ve got a recipe for every taste and occasion.
So grab your apron, fire up your stove, and get ready to indulge in the creamy, dreamy world of leek pasta!
Creamy Leek and Mushroom Pasta
This rich and comforting pasta dish combines the sweetness of caramelized leeks with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pappardelle pasta
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 1 cup (115g) mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and tender (about 10 minutes).
3. Add mushrooms and garlic to the skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and creamy mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Garlic Butter Leek Pasta with Parmesan
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of leeks with the savory taste of garlic butter and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 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 minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add sliced leeks to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Stir in reserved pasta water and cooked pasta. Combine well to coat the pasta evenly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Bacon Carbonara
This classic Italian dish gets a flavorful twist with the addition of caramelized leeks and crispy bacon. This rich and creamy pasta dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black 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, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the sliced leeks to the same skillet and cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Add the reserved pasta water in small increments to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
7. Combine the cooked bacon and caramelized leeks with the pasta mixture. Toss until well combined.
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
One-Pot Leek and Chicken Pasta
Savor a comforting and flavorful one-pot pasta dish packed with chicken, leeks, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or bowtie)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add leeks and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add white wine (if using), chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the pot and stir to coat with sauce.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is fully cooked and chicken is tender.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Leek Pasta with Fresh Herbs
Brighten up your pasta dish with this refreshing recipe, bursting with citrusy lemon flavor and the subtle sweetness of leeks. This quick and easy meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or dill) for garnish
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 leeks and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lemon juice and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional minute.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the leek mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leek and Spinach Alfredo Pasta
This rich and flavorful pasta dish combines the sweetness of caramelized leeks with the earthiness of wilted spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup unsalted 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. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add wilted spinach leaves and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked fettuccine, leek mixture, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Leek and Sausage Pasta
A flavorful and spicy pasta dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized leeks with the savory flavor of Italian sausage.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 large leek, thinly sliced
– 2 Italian sausages, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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, cook sausages over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced leeks and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add garlic, white wine, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage, and leek mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss with reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Goat Cheese Pasta Bake
This recipe combines the sweet flavor of leeks with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a satisfying pasta bake. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, leek mixture, crumbled goat cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese in a baking dish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leek and Smoked Salmon Pasta
This recipe combines the sweet flavors of leeks with the rich taste of smoked salmon, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in flaked smoked salmon and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and toss to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Leek Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of roasted garlic with the earthy flavor of leeks, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2-3 cloves garlic
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
3. In a large skillet, sauté sliced leeks in olive oil over medium heat until softened and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine roasted garlic, cooked pasta, and sautéed leeks. Toss with Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Leek and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the subtle flavor of leeks, all on a bed of al dente spaghetti. A perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors in every bite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sliced leeks and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and reserved pasta water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the leek-sun-dried tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Leek and Ricotta Stuffed Shells: A creamy twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines tender pasta shells with a rich leek and ricotta filling, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté leeks in butter until tender and translucent. Let cool slightly.
4. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
5. Add cooked leeks to the ricotta mixture and mix well.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the leek-ricotta filling, placing them seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Shrimp Scampi Pasta
A flavorful and quick pasta dish that combines the sweetness of leeks with the brininess of shrimp, all tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into thin rings
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and shrimp to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the reserved pasta cooking water and white wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, leek-shrimp mixture, and remaining butter in a large serving bowl. Toss everything together until well combined.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leek and Pea Pasta with Mint
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant pasta dish, featuring sweet leeks, tender peas, and refreshing mint. This recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying dinner or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 1 cup fresh peas (frozen or canned work too)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in frozen peas and cook until tender (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Combine cooked pasta, leek mixture, and chopped mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional mint if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Truffle Oil Pasta
This creamy pasta dish is a perfect combination of earthy leeks and luxurious truffle oil. It’s a simple yet impressive recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the leeks and garlic in 1 tablespoon of truffle oil over medium heat until tender and caramelized.
3. Add the heavy cream to the pan and stir to combine with the leek mixture.
4. Combine cooked pasta and leek mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leek and Artichoke Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the sweetness of artichokes with the subtle flavor of leeks, all tied together with a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– 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, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cooked leeks, and chopped artichoke hearts.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Leek and Butternut Squash Pasta
This autumnal pasta dish combines the subtle sweetness of butternut squash with the pungency of caramelized leeks, all bound together in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash cubes with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook leeks and garlic in 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine roasted squash, cooked leeks, and heavy cream in the skillet. Stir until smooth.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Leek and Walnut Pesto Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the subtle sweetness of leeks with the earthy richness of walnuts, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The pesto sauce adds a burst of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and chopped
– 1/2 cup walnut halves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine leeks, walnuts, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the pesto sauce to cooked pasta and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Gorgonzola Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized leeks with the pungency of Gorgonzola cheese, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 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, melt butter over medium heat. Add leeks and cook until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in Gorgonzola cheese until melted and smooth. Add heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta with leek and cheese mixture. Toss until coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Chorizo Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs
This recipe combines the sweetness of leeks, the smokiness of chorizo, and the crunch of crispy breadcrumbs to create a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
– 4 oz. Spanish chorizo, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced leeks and cook until caramelized (about 8 minutes).
3. Add chorizo slices and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked pasta, leek mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to combine.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the pasta and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Indulge in 20 creamy leek pasta recipes that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. From classic combinations like Leek and Mushroom Pasta to innovative twists like Lemon Leek Pasta with Fresh Herbs, these comforting dinner ideas are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy Alfredo sauces or lighter and brighter Mediterranean-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone in this collection of leek-based pasta recipes.
