Get ready to indulge in a world of rich, velvety, and utterly delicious pasta sauces! With the abundance of creamy goodness, you’ll be hard-pressed to choose just one. From classic combinations like garlic parmesan to more adventurous options like roasted red pepper or truffle oil and mushroom, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, we’re counting down the top 20 creamiest pasta sauce recipes that will elevate your meal game. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or a culinary enthusiast seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these mouthwatering sauces are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. So, let’s dive in and explore the rich flavors of Italy, France, and beyond!
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Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy garlic parmesan cream sauce, perfect for coating spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce
This rich and creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce is a perfect accompaniment to pasta, chicken, or vegetables. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese adds a depth of flavor that will elevate any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Stir in chopped parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, chicken, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke White Sauce
This creamy sauce combines the flavors of spinach and artichoke hearts with a rich white sauce, perfect for serving over pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add flour; whisk until smooth. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or vegetables with this rich and creamy mushroom and thyme cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 ounces mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, about 5-7 minutes or longer if desired.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce: Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful sauce that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with garlic, onion, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 red bell peppers
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and onion; cook for 5-7 minutes or until softened.
5. Add the roasted red pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir in the broth.
6. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Four Cheese Pasta Sauce
This rich and indulgent pasta sauce is a perfect blend of four distinct cheeses, creating a velvety texture that coats your noodles to perfection. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously cheesy dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the heavy cream and stir until it starts to simmer.
3. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan, Gruyère, and Cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Cream Sauce with Pine Nuts
This classic Italian sauce combines the richness of cream with the bold flavors of pine nuts and fresh basil. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip, this creamy pesto is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cream, pine nuts, basil, garlic, and Parmesan.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Lobster Bisque Pasta Sauce
Lobster Bisque Pasta Sauce Recipe
Elevate your pasta dishes with the rich flavor of lobster bisque. This decadent sauce is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lobster meat, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and white wine, whisking continuously.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in lobster meat, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
8. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Truffle Oil and Mushroom Sauce
This rich and savory sauce combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the luxurious taste of truffle oil, perfect for elevating your pasta dishes, risottos, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add wine and broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in truffle oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Basil Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or use as a dip with this rich and flavorful Avocado Basil Cream Sauce, featuring the creamy richness of avocados and the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the basil leaves, heavy cream, garlic, salt, and pepper to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with lemon juice if desired.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Sauce
Add a spicy twist to classic Alfredo sauce with this Cajun-inspired recipe featuring succulent shrimp and a kick of cayenne pepper. Perfect for pasta lovers looking to mix things up!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Remove shrimp from the skillet; set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper; stir to combine.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet; toss to coat with the Cajun Alfredo sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Butternut Squash Sage Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or roasted vegetables with this creamy and aromatic sauce, featuring the sweet flavors of butternut squash and savory notes of sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 small butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place it on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor with the olive oil, sage leaves, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
5. Blend until smooth, adding salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm over pasta, roasted vegetables, or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting time) + 2-3 minutes blending
Caramelized Onion and Gorgonzola Sauce
This rich and creamy sauce is perfect for elevating your next pasta dish or using as a dip. With sweet caramelized onions and pungent gorgonzola, it’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
2. Add the butter to the skillet and stir until melted.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Smoked Salmon Dill Cream Sauce
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this creamy and flavorful sauce, perfect for topping toast, eggs, or even crackers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon, heavy cream, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Roasted Garlic and White Wine Sauce
Elevate your dishes with this rich and creamy sauce infused with the deep flavor of roasted garlic. Perfect for pasta, meat, or vegetables, this versatile sauce is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cloves of garlic
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap garlic cloves in foil, drizzle with a tablespoon of white wine, and roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Remove garlic from the oven and let cool slightly. Squeeze the roasted garlic into a blender or food processor.
4. Add remaining white wine, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper to the blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm over pasta, meat, or vegetables, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including roasting time)
Spicy Chipotle Tomato Cream Sauce
Add a bold kick to your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy sauce, infused with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chipotle pepper and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the canned tomatoes, heavy cream, and oregano.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
This bright and citrusy sauce is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, or pasta dishes. With its tangy lemon flavor and savory garlic undertones, it’s sure to elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the lemon juice and whisk until smooth.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon and Pea Carbonara Sauce
This rich and creamy sauce is a twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring crispy bacon and sweet peas. Perfect as a pasta topping or as a dip for vegetables or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup of fresh peas
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the butter and sauté the garlic for 1 minute.
3. Add the peas and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese Sauce
Elevate your dishes with this creamy and flavorful herbed goat cheese sauce. Perfect as a dip, spread, or accompaniment to various recipes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz goat cheese (chèvre), softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine softened goat cheese, chopped parsley, and chives.
2. Mix well until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the cheese.
3. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until smooth.
4. Stir in minced garlic.
5. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None
Creamy Pumpkin and Sage Sauce
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful sauce, perfect for fall and winter meals. This creamy pumpkin and sage sauce is a delicious accompaniment to pasta, risotto, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 cups), cooked and pureed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the pureed pumpkin, chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 creamy sauce recipes! From classic combinations like Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce and Four Cheese Pasta Sauce, to innovative twists like Pesto Cream Sauce with Pine Nuts and Caramelized Onion and Gorgonzola Sauce. Explore the world of flavors with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce, Mushroom and Thyme Cream Sauce, and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and decadent or light and refreshing, there’s a creamy pasta sauce recipe on this list to satisfy your cravings.
