A comforting aroma wafts through the kitchen as the creamy cheese sauce clings to perfectly cooked pasta. This 10-MINUTE CREAM CHEESE PASTA is an incredibly simple dish that comes together in just minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. The secret to its success lies in combining cream cheese with starchy pasta water to create a silky sauce that envelops each noodle.
This recipe is perfect for college students, busy parents, or anyone craving a quick yet satisfying meal. It’s an ideal choice for a swift lunch or dinner, and any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a quick reheating option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It only takes 10 minutes from start to finish.
- The sauce is creamy, rich, and incredibly smooth.
- It utilizes simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- This dish is easily customizable to fit your taste preferences.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to prepare your pasta dish quickly and easily.
For the Pasta
- 1/2 lb (225 grams) pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli…)
For the Sauce
- 3/4 cup (160 grams) cream cheese*
- 1/4 cup (30 grams) grated parmesan, plus more to serve
- 1 Tbsp olive oil, plus more to serve
- 1-2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) cooking water, plus more if needed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4-1/2 tsp chili flakes, or according to taste (optional)
*Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Any pasta type can be used.
- Cream cheese can be replaced with ricotta or Greek yogurt.
- Parmesan can be substituted with pecorino or nutritional yeast.
- Garlic powder works in place of fresh garlic.
How to Make It
Creating this delicious pasta is straightforward.
1. Cook pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. Reserve water
Right before draining, reserve a cup of starchy pasta water.
3. Fry garlic
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, warm 1 Tbsp of olive oil and gently fry the garlic (plus a good pinch of chili flakes if you like) for 2-3 minutes on low flame; do not let the garlic burn.
4. Make the sauce
Stir in the cream cheese and about 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water. Combine ingredients to create a nice and creamy emulsion. Add parmesan cheese and mix well—your pasta sauce is ready.
5. Combine pasta and sauce
Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet. Stir well to evenly coat the pasta with the sauce, adding more cooking water as needed for a smooth and creamy consistency.
6. Serve
Serve immediately with a drizzle of good olive oil or extra virgin olive oil, freshly grated parmesan, and freshly ground black pepper (if you don’t use chili flakes). Enjoy!
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, pasta does not freeze well after being tossed with sauce.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding extra water if needed.
Tips for Best Results
- Cook the pasta just until al dente for the best texture.
- Use the starchy pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Adjust the chili flakes according to your heat preference.
- A splash of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
- This dish is great for quick family meals or casual get-togethers.
