It is 6pm. You are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast. This creamy herb pasta is the answer to your busy day.
This recipe delivers a warm and comforting meal in 30 minutes. It uses fresh herbs to feel light and bright for spring. Your family will love every tender and golden bite.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This dish is a total winner for busy families. It feels fancy but uses simple staples. You get restaurant-quality flavor in your own kitchen.
It is perfect for those nights when you need a hug in a bowl. The fresh herbs add a lovely garden-fresh touch. You will love how quick and easy it is to clean up.
How It Comes Together
Making this sauce is easier than you think. You just simmer cream and melt in cheese. It is a foolproof method for beginners.
The secret is using a little pasta water. This helps the sauce stick to every noodle perfectly. You can do this even if you rarely cook.
Simple Ingredients
Most of these items are likely in your pantry right now. Fresh herbs make the flavor pop.
- 12 oz Fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 3 cloves Garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Fresh chives, minced
- 1 tsp Fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup Reserved pasta cooking water
Cooking Steps
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Lower heat and whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Incorporate pasta, water, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Toss for 1 minute until the sauce coats the pasta.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this pasta warm in large, shallow bowls. It looks beautiful with an extra sprinkle of herbs. Add a crisp green salad on the side.
Warm garlic bread is also a fantastic pairing. This is the ultimate comfort food for a quiet night. Your family will keep asking for more.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. The sauce may thicken when cold.
To reheat, add a splash of milk or water. Warm it gently on the stove over low heat. This keeps the creamy texture perfectly smooth.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip reserving the pasta water for the sauce.
- Avoid burning the garlic to keep the flavor sweet.
- Grate your own Parmesan for the smoothest melt.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for best results.
- For a spring twist, add a squeeze of lemon.
- Double the recipe if you are feeding a crowd.
- Toss the pasta immediately while the sauce is hot.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Swap fettuccine for gluten-free noodles if needed.
- Mix in some sautéed spinach for extra greens.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a different sweetness.
Quick Answers
Can I use dried herbs?
Yes, but use only one-third of the amount. Fresh herbs provide a much brighter flavor profile. They really make this dish special.
How do I know when it is done?
The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. It will look glossy and thick after tossing. Serve it immediately for the best experience.
I hope this creamy herb pasta brings a little joy to your table. It is the perfect way to celebrate a fresh spring evening. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Creamy Herb Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz Fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 3 cloves Garlic , finely minced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Fresh chives, minced
- 1 tsp Fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup Reserved pasta cooking water
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the noodles.
- In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until foaming.
- Add the minced garlic to the butter and sauté for approximately 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the volume is slightly reduced and the texture thickens.
- Lower the heat and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and emulsified.
- Incorporate the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, parsley, chives, thyme, salt, and pepper into the skillet.
- Toss the mixture continuously for 1 minute to ensure the sauce adheres to the pasta surface and serve immediately.
