Why make this recipe
Cream Cheese Pasta is a simple and delicious dish that combines the creaminess of cream cheese with the comforting taste of pasta. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a tasty dish to impress guests. The best part is that it can be made in under 30 minutes, making it an easy choice for busy days. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients!
How to make Cream Cheese Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (any type)
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked chicken (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic in a bit of oil until fragrant.
- Add cream cheese and broth, stirring until the cream cheese is melted and smooth.
- Mix in the parmesan cheese and cooked chicken, and stir until combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to serve Cream Cheese Pasta
Serve Cream Cheese Pasta warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to store Cream Cheese Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta can stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth as needed to loosen the sauce.
Tips to make Cream Cheese Pasta
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste; you can add more for a stronger flavor.
Variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth. Adding mushrooms or bell peppers can also enhance the dish.
FAQs
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, spaghetti, or fusilli.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese.
Can I make Cream Cheese Pasta ahead of time?
While the sauce will keep well, cooked pasta can become mushy. It’s best to combine the pasta and sauce just before serving if you’re making it in advance.
Cream Cheese Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic in a bit of oil until fragrant.
- Add cream cheese and broth, stirring until the cream cheese is melted and smooth.
- Mix in the parmesan cheese and cooked chicken, and stir until combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.