Are you tired of the same old boring pasta dishes? Look no further! Creamy parmesan pasta is a classic comfort food that can be elevated to new heights with just a few simple twists. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering creamy parmesan pasta recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From garlic butter and lemon-infused options to decadent truffle and spicy arrabbiata varieties, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, these creamy parmesan pasta dishes are sure to please. So go ahead, get creative, and take your pasta game to the next level with these delicious and innovative recipes.
Garlic Butter Parmesan Pasta
A rich and savory pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Remove the pasta from the water and drain well. Add the garlic butter mixture to the pasta and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to distribute evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Spaghetti
A bright and citrusy twist on classic spaghetti, this recipe combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the zest of fresh lemon.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Drain cooked spaghetti and add to the skillet with lemon-parmesan mixture. Toss until well combined, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Parmesan Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines sautéed mushrooms with a rich and creamy sauce, topped with melted Parmesan cheese and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 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 onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta and creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the simplicity of pasta with the rich flavors of roasted cherry tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, creating a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the tomatoes release their juices.
3. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine roasted tomatoes and cooked pasta in a serving bowl. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Parmesan Tortellini
A classic Italian dish gets a creamy twist with this spinach and Parmesan tortellini recipe. Fresh spinach and melted Parmesan cheese are wrapped inside tender pasta, then smothered in a rich cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh tortellini
– 2 cups (250g) fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Combine the cooked tortellini with the spinach-Parmesan mixture.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
This creamy pasta dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour. With chicken, parmesan cheese, and cherry tomatoes, this recipe is a classic combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or bow tie)
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cherry tomatoes, parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add cooked pasta and chicken broth to the pot. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Alfredo Fettuccine
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this classic recipe, featuring fettuccine pasta smothered in a creamy Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine pasta and sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Parmesan Pasta Salad
A classic Italian-inspired salad with a creamy twist, this Pesto Parmesan Pasta Salad is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish. Fresh basil, garlic, and parmesan cheese come together in a flavorful sauce that’s tossed with cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and crunchy croutons.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup croutons
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine pesto, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and croutons to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Parmesan Truffle Pasta
Rich and decadent, this Parmesan Truffle Pasta is a creamy indulgence that’s sure to satisfy your pasta cravings.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add truffle oil and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the truffle-Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Parmesan Carbonara
This classic Italian recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon, the creaminess of eggs, and the nutty taste of Parmesan cheese to create a rich and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 large eggs
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and 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. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the reserved pasta water and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
6. Stir in the crispy bacon and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Parmesan Pasta Bake
This comforting casserole combines al dente pasta with steamed broccoli, melted mozzarella, and a rich parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup cream
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions.
3. Steam broccoli until tender.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
6. Combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and parmesan sauce in a baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Parmesan Pasta
A flavorful and refreshing take on classic shrimp parmesan, this dish combines succulent shrimp with a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, crispy breadcrumbs, and melted mozzarella cheese, all served over a bed of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add lemon juice, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce. Toss to combine.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese over the top; bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
Sun-Dried Tomato Parmesan Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese with al dente pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
– 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.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and well combined with the tomato mixture.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato-parmesan sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Parmesan Pasta with Andouille Sausage
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy and savory pasta dish, featuring Andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning, and a creamy Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp. paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook Andouille sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, and paprika; stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta, sausage, salt, and pepper to the skillet; toss until well combined.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Parmesan Pasta with Breadcrumbs
Transform your pasta into a crispy, cheesy delight with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or Panko)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each cooked pasta piece into the egg, coating evenly, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture to coat.
5. Place the coated pasta on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ratatouille Parmesan Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of French ratatouille with the comforting warmth of parmesan pasta, creating a dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, onions, garlic)
– 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture; toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese and parsley on top; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Pasta with Peas and Prosciutto
This classic Italian-inspired pasta dish is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and simplicity. With its creamy parmesan sauce, sweet peas, and crispy prosciutto, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 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 spaghetti 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 prosciutto and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add peas to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta, parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water in a large bowl. Toss until creamy sauce forms.
5. Add cooked prosciutto and peas to the pasta mixture. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Parmesan Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish with a spicy twist, this recipe combines the flavors of garlic, red pepper flakes, and parmesan cheese to create a bold and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tsp. red pepper flakes
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and salt to taste. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices.
4. Stir in reserved pasta water and add cooked spaghetti. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated with sauce.
5. Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese. Season with black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 creamy Parmesan pasta recipes that put a twist on the classic! From garlic butter and lemon to mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and more, there’s something for everyone. Try one-pot chicken parmesan, truffle parmesan, or spicy arrabbiata parmesan for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a light and refreshing option, these recipes are sure to please.
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