Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 creamy pasta sauce recipes! Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and indulgent Alfredo, a bold and spicy Arrabbiata, or a bright and tangy Lemon Garlic Butter, we’ve got you covered. From classic comfort foods to modern twists on old favorites, our collection of creamy pasta sauces has something for every occasion.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of creamy pasta sauces, sharing our top 18 recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, these saucy masterpieces will inspire your creativity and satisfy your cravings.
Classic Alfredo Pasta Sauce
This rich and creamy sauce is a timeless favorite that pairs perfectly with fettuccine or other long, flat pasta shapes. With just a few ingredients, you can create a decadent and flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is best)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or pizza nights with this velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce, bursting with savory flavors. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful sun-dried tomato sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your liking.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot over cooked pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this classic Italian sauce that packs a punch! Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce is a staple in many Italian kitchens, and for good reason – it’s quick, easy, and adds a depth of flavor to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this vibrant and flavorful roasted red pepper sauce. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and tangy sauce that’s perfect for tossing with your favorite noodles.
Ingredients:
– 4 red bell peppers
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted peppers, garlic, vegetable broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Simmer the sauce over medium heat for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Cream Sauce
This rich and creamy sauce is a perfect accompaniment to pasta, risotto, or even grilled meats. With the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the subtle hint of thyme, this sauce is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually pour in heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Cream Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy pesto sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
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 blender or food processor, combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in heavy cream through the top. Continue blending until well combined and creamy.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the pesto sauce if it’s too thick. Toss cooked pasta with the pesto sauce, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Brighten up your favorite dishes with this zesty and aromatic lemon garlic butter sauce! This versatile condiment is perfect for pasta, seafood, chicken, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the lemon juice and zest; whisk until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Four Cheese Pasta Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this indulgent pasta sauce that combines four artisanal cheeses for a velvety, cheesy delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Fontina cheese
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan, Gruyère, Cheddar, and Fontina cheeses. Whisk until smooth.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the cheese mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful sauce featuring the perfect combination of spinach, artichoke hearts, and cream. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped artichoke hearts and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vodka Cream Pasta Sauce
A rich and creamy pasta sauce with a hint of vodka adds depth and sophistication to your favorite pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vodka (any type)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz. fettuccine or other long pasta
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. Pour in vodka and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in dried basil, salt, and pepper. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Carbonara-Style Pasta Sauce
Carbonara-Style Pasta Sauce Recipe
A classic Italian sauce gets a creamy twist with this Carbonara-Style Pasta Sauce recipe, perfect for pasta lovers. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a rich and savory sauce in no time.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture into the saucepan with melted butter. Whisk constantly over low heat until thickened.
- Add chopped parsley and reserved pasta water to the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serves 4-6
Truffle Cream Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and decadent truffle cream sauce, perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon truffle oil (or 1-2 drops truffle extract)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, thyme, truffle oil (or extract), salt, and pepper.
6. Toss with cooked pasta and garnish with parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Avocado Basil Pasta Sauce
This recipe combines the richness of avocados with the brightness of basil to create a unique and delicious pasta sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a show-stopping main course.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the avocados and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the chopped basil, garlic, and olive oil to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using Parmesan cheese, stir it in just before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serve over: Your favorite pasta shape, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.
Cajun Cream Pasta Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this creamy Cajun pasta sauce recipe. This rich and spicy sauce is perfect for coating your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or linguine.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
7. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Toss cooked pasta with the Cajun cream sauce and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary White Wine Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or roasted vegetables with this aromatic and flavorful rosemary white wine sauce. This classic Italian-inspired condiment is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 teaspoon)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the rosemary and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the white wine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the wine by half, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately over pasta, roasted vegetables, or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gorgonzola Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or grilled meats with this rich and creamy sauce, featuring sweet caramelized onions and tangy gorgonzola cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized (about 30-40 minutes).
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the balsamic vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and crumbled gorgonzola cheese until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes (including caramelization time)
Smoked Salmon Cream Pasta Sauce
This rich and creamy pasta sauce combines the bold flavor of smoked salmon with a hint of creaminess, perfect for a sophisticated yet easy weeknight dinner. Serve it over your favorite pasta shape for a taste sensation.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add flaked smoked salmon to the skillet; cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the smoked salmon cream sauce and top with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of creamy pasta sauce with these 18 mouth-watering recipes. From classic Alfredo to spicy Arrabbiata, and from sun-kissed tomato to decadent truffle, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of mushroom and thyme or a zesty kick from Cajun cream, this collection has it all. With a range of flavors and ingredients, these creamy pasta sauces are sure to elevate your pasta dishes and satisfy any craving. Get ready to indulge!
