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Quick Creamy Lemon Parmesan Spaghetti

quick creamy lemon parmesan spaghetti - featured image

A fast, creamy, and bright lemon parmesan spaghetti recipe that comes together in just 15 minutes, perfect for a satisfying and easy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces dried spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lemon (about 2 tablespoons juice)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 100 grams)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Handful of fresh parsley, chopped
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (about 4 quarts) to a rolling boil.
  2. Add 8 ounces of spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Stir in lemon zest and juice; cook for 30 seconds to let flavors mingle.
  6. Slowly add 1 cup heavy cream, stirring gently and bring to a low simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
  8. Add drained spaghetti to the skillet with the lemon cream sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  9. Gradually sprinkle in grated Parmesan while tossing the pasta; add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  10. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste and toss again.
  11. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Pour cream slowly to avoid curdling. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor. Do not overcook pasta; al dente is ideal. Optional red pepper flakes add a spicy kick.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon parmesan spaghetti, creamy pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, lemon pasta, parmesan sauce, 15-minute meal