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Creamy Lemon Parmesan Pasta (Fresh, Bright & Easy)

This creamy lemon parmesan pasta is rich, silky, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor. Made with cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon juice, this easy pasta dish comes together quickly for a bright, comforting meal that feels both simple and elevated.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or a light, refreshing pasta option, this recipe delivers a smooth, creamy sauce with just the right balance of richness and citrus.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, fresh lemon flavor
• Creamy, smooth sauce
• Quick and easy to make
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for weeknight dinners

Jennie’s Thoughts

This is one of those recipes that feels a little fancy, but it’s actually so simple to make. The cream and Parmesan make it rich and comforting, while the fresh lemon keeps it light and balanced so it doesn’t feel too heavy.

I love how quickly it comes together, especially on nights when you want something homemade but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. It’s simple, it’s fresh, and it always turns out really good.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2–3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta

Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.

2. Make Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add Cream

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Add Cheese

Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

5. Add Lemon

Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Combine

Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.

7. Serve

Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth sauce
• Add lemon juice at the end for fresh flavor
• Reserve pasta water to adjust consistency
• Do not boil the sauce after adding cheese

Variations

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp
• Stir in spinach for a fresh addition
• Add red pepper flakes for a little heat
• Use half-and-half for a lighter version

Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk
• Not ideal for freezing

Conclusion

This creamy lemon parmesan pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines rich creaminess with bright citrus notes. Easy to prepare and made with everyday ingredients, it’s a reliable recipe for both quick dinners and more elevated meals.