Are you tired of the same old pasta sauces? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with a collection of 18 creamy pasta sauce recipes that are sure to spice up your weeknights. From classic Alfredo to bold and spicy chipotle, these recipes offer a range of flavors and textures to satisfy any pasta lover.
Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and indulgent or light and refreshing, we’ve got a recipe that’s perfect for you. With ingredients like heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes, these sauces are sure to elevate your pasta dishes from ordinary to extraordinary.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of creamy pasta sauces, featuring recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and let the creaminess begin!
Homemade Alfredo Sauce with Parmesan and Heavy Cream
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy homemade Alfredo sauce, made with just a few simple ingredients. This classic Italian recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful sauce, featuring tender mushrooms, pungent garlic, and a hint of buttery goodness. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a base for your favorite pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Bring mixture to a simmer; let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the mushroom sauce, adding remaining butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Sauce
Satisfy your cravings with this rich and flavorful pasta sauce that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the creaminess of a velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the pasta sauce over cooked pasta, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke White Sauce Pasta
Spinach and Artichoke White Sauce Pasta: A Creamy and Flavorful Twist on Classic Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese with a rich and creamy white sauce, served over al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup white sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
White Sauce:
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped artichoke hearts and spinach leaves; cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and white sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and white sauce mixture. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rich Truffle Oil Pasta Sauce with Cream
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent sauce that combines the luxurious flavor of truffle oil with the richness of heavy cream. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine truffle oil, garlic, and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth over medium heat.
3. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce and whisk until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Sauce preparation time: 5 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Herb Pasta Sauce
Roasted Garlic and Herb Pasta Sauce: Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful sauce that combines the richness of roasted garlic with the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, separated into individual bulbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each garlic bulb in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt.
3. Roast the garlic for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool.
5. Squeeze the roasted garlic into a blender or food processor with the parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Blend until smooth, then add the crushed tomatoes and blend until well combined.
7. Simmer the sauce over medium heat for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Pasta in Creamy Sauce
Add a spicy kick to your pasta night with this flavorful Cajun shrimp dish!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and creamy sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Four Cheese Pasta Sauce Blend
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy four-cheese sauce blend. A perfect combination of mozzarella, parmesan, provolone, and cheddar, it’s a delicious way to add flavor and moisture to your favorite pasta recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated provolone cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine the grated cheeses, stirring until smooth.
4. Cook the cheese mixture for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce for Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this zesty and aromatic lemon garlic cream sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Cream Sauce with Pasta
This creamy sauce combines the warmth of pumpkin puree with the earthy flavor of sage, perfectly paired with al dente pasta. A comforting and savory dish for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., pappardelle or linguine)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree, sage, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.
4. Add reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency as needed.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the pumpkin sage cream sauce. Toss to coat, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Sauce
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the rich flavor of smoked gouda! This creamy sauce is perfect for a comforting side dish or a decadent main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated Smoked Gouda cheese, divided
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute, or until lightly golden.
3. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of the Smoked Gouda cheese and the cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of Smoked Gouda cheese until well combined.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce with Pine Nuts
This rich and flavorful sauce combines the classic Italian flavors of basil pesto with the crunch of toasted pine nuts, perfect for tossing with your favorite pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Process until well combined.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions.
5. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (plus pasta cooking time)
Caramelized Onion and Bacon Cream Sauce
Elevate your dishes with this rich and savory sauce, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip. The combination of sweet caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and creamy heavy cream is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
2. Add the crumbled bacon, minced garlic, and salt to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the butter until melted. Season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Avocado Cilantro Lime Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful sauce! This recipe combines the creaminess of avocado, the freshness of cilantro, and the zing of lime juice for a unique and delicious twist on traditional pasta sauces.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in the olive oil until fully incorporated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve immediately over cooked pasta of your choice.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to go straight from the blender.
Garlic White Wine Cream Sauce for Pasta
Elevate your pasta dish with this rich and creamy garlic white wine sauce. Perfect for accompanying your favorite pasta shapes, this flavorful condiment is sure to become a new staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add white wine; simmer until reduced by half, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Season with Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Creamy Vodka Sauce with Penne
Transform a weeknight into a special occasion with this rich and creamy vodka sauce paired with penne pasta. This indulgent dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and vodka. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
6. Add cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk and Turmeric Pasta Sauce
Add a creamy and aromatic twist to your pasta dishes with this simple and flavorful sauce. This recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of turmeric, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the heavy cream or half-and-half, coconut milk, turmeric, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook your pasta according to package instructions. Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Cream Pasta Sauce
Add a kick to your pasta with this creamy and spicy sauce featuring chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped (use gloves when handling)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in chipotle pepper, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir occasionally while serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Serve: Toss with cooked pasta, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Enjoy!
Summary
Indulge in the comfort of creamy pasta sauces with these 18 mouthwatering recipes for weeknights. From classic Alfredo to innovative truffle oil, each sauce is packed with flavor and ease. Whisk up Garlic Butter Mushroom or Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato to elevate your pasta game. Spice things up with Cajun Shrimp or Spicy Chipotle, or keep it simple with Four Cheese or Lemon Garlic. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and indulgent or light and zesty, there’s a sauce here to satisfy your cravings. Get cooking and make weeknights a little more delightful!
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