If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, the Creamy Pasta with Peas and Parmesan Recipe is exactly what you need. This luscious, comforting pasta combines tender peas with a silky Parmesan-infused cream sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of spaghetti or twirl of penne. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress guests, making it one of those go-to recipes you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color, proving that sometimes the simplest things make the biggest impact on your plate.
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne: Your pasta base, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and providing a satisfying bite.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas: Adds a pop of sweetness and a vibrant green color that brightens the dish.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and creating a fragrant, flavorful foundation.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with its unmistakable aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The key to that rich, velvety texture that makes this pasta so indulgent.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides salty, nutty notes and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Pasta with Peas and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your spaghetti or penne according to the package directions until al dente—tender but with just enough bite to stand up to the creamy sauce. Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside while you prepare the sauce. This step is key because perfectly cooked pasta is the backbone of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Next, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it gently for about one minute until fragrant and golden. Garlic releases its wonderful aroma here, which will infuse the entire dish with a wonderful warmth. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as burnt garlic can give a bitter taste.
Step 3: Add the Peas
Now, toss in your fresh or frozen peas and stir them around the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes until they turn a bright, vibrant green and become tender. The peas add a delightful juicy burst that contrasts the creamy sauce, giving the pasta a nice balance of flavors and textures.
Step 4: Mix in the Cream
Pour in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously to combine everything smoothly and allow the cream to thicken just a bit. At this stage, season with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors. This luscious cream creates the magic that makes this Creamy Pasta with Peas and Parmesan Recipe so unforgettable.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your cooked pasta into the skillet and toss everything together to make sure each piece is generously coated with the creamy sauce and scattered with those tender peas. This final mix is where all the flavors meld together, promising that every bite will be as dreamy as the last.
Step 6: Serve with Parmesan
Divide the pasta among plates or bowls, then finish each serving with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This final touch not only adds body to the sauce but also layers on a sharp, savory note that perfectly balances the creaminess. Now you’re ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying comfort foods around!
How to Serve Creamy Pasta with Peas and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate this dish beautifully. Freshly cracked black pepper and a few torn basil leaves or chopped parsley add color and a fresh contrast to the richness. For an extra spark, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten each creamy mouthful.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy cucumber salad to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes an excellent companion, perfect for mopping up that delicious sauce you won’t want to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this creamy pasta in individual ramekins and top with a few toasted breadcrumbs for texture. You could also stir in some crispy pancetta or sautéed mushrooms alongside the peas to personalize it for special occasions. A drizzle of truffle oil just before serving adds an indulgent aroma sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Pasta with Peas and Parmesan Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the pasta completely before sealing it to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Because of the cream sauce, freezing is possible but not always ideal as the texture of the cream can change slightly. If you do freeze leftovers, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best results. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or cream added back to help loosen the sauce and restore that signature creamy texture. Stir occasionally until warm throughout, taking care not to overheat and separate the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with most pasta shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni. The sauce clings well to any pasta, so feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
You can try using half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and a bit thinner. To compensate, you might add a small amount of flour or cornstarch to help thicken the sauce gently.
Are frozen peas just as good as fresh?
Yes! Frozen peas are actually picked and frozen at peak freshness, so they retain their sweetness and texture. They are a great convenient choice for this creamy pasta dish.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, or crispy pancetta all make fantastic additions that complement the creamy, cheesy flavors while making the dish more filling.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan friendly?
To keep it vegetarian, simply ensure your Parmesan is free from animal rennet. For a vegan take, substitute the cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative—though the flavor will be different, it can still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully comforting and effortless about this Creamy Pasta with Peas and Parmesan Recipe. It’s a perfect mix of creamy texture, fresh pops of green, and cheesy delight all in one bowl. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this pasta promises to satisfy both your tummy and your soul. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this simple yet spectacular dish!
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Creamy Pasta with Peas and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A quick and creamy pasta dish featuring tender peas, garlic, and a rich Parmesan-infused cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that comes together in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne
Vegetables
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add Peas: Stir in the fresh or frozen peas and sauté for approximately 3 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender.
- Mix in Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy pea mixture.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and finish by sprinkling generously with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- If using frozen peas, no need to thaw them beforehand.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if necessary.
