10 Minute Cream Cheese Pasta
Cream Cheese Pasta recipe is the easiest dinner idea that is perfect when you are in a rush! It is made with al dente pasta coated in silky cheesy sauce that's rich with aromatic garlic and spices.
Ingredients
- ½ pound pasta of your choice.
- 5 ounce cream cheese softened
- ½ cup Parmesan grated and divided.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided.
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- ½ cup pasta water
- salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon chilli flakes optional
Instructions
- In a large pot add water and salt, cook pasta according to package directions.
- Be sure to reserve a cup of pasta water and set aside then drain.
- In a large skillet heat the olive oil then lower heat and add in the minced garlic and chili flakes (optional) for 2 minutes.
- Then add 1/2 cup pasta water, the softened cream cheese, and parmesan cheese.
- Once creamy, your pasta sauce is ready. Add your drained pasta to the skillet. Gently mix well to evenly coat the pasta in the sauce, if needed add pasta water to accomplish a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Once ready to serve, garnish with the remaining half of the parmesan cheese, drizzle 1 tablespoon on olive oil, black pepper and crushed red pepper for some heat (optional).
Notes
- Pasta should be cooked to al dente. Don't overcook them.
- Grate your own fresh Parmesan cheese, and avoid buying store-bought shredded Parmesan. It will not melt.
- Add pasta water to the sauce for ultra-creaminess.
- You can store pasta leftovers in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.