Name: 15-Minute Cream Cheese Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon butter; 3 cloves garlic (minced); ½ teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 8 ounces cream cheese (cubed); ⅔ cup chicken broth (or as needed); ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese; salt and pepper to taste; cooked pasta (for serving)

The secret to an incredibly rich and satisfying cream cheese pasta lies in the smooth emulsification of the cream cheese with a flavorful broth. This cream cheese pasta recipe simplifies that process, making a restaurant-quality meal accessible to any home cook. It’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights, delivering a dish that feels indulgent without the fuss. The key is to melt the cream cheese gently and whisk continuously for a seamless sauce.

⏱ Time: 20 min

👥 Servings: 4

📊 Level: Easy

🥗 9 ingredients

15-Minute Cream Cheese Pasta

Cream cheese pasta: whip up this velvety, herb-infused sauce in just 15 minutes. A comforting and satisfying meal for any night of the week.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon onion powder
8 ounces cream cheese (cubed)
⅔ cup chicken broth (or as needed)
¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
salt and pepper to taste
cooked pasta (for serving)

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
While pasta is boiling, cook minced garlic in butter in a saucepan over medium heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add dried basil and onion powder. Whisk in cream cheese until melted and smooth.
Add chicken broth a little bit at a time and simmer for 3-4 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese. Season with salt & pepper to taste and serve immediately over pasta.

Notes

Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Keyword cream cheese pasta

Pro tips

For an extra rich sauce, use heavy cream instead of chicken broth, reducing the amount slightly.
If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Adding a little extra liquid off the heat helps maintain the creaminess.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little extra broth or milk to loosen.

This cream cheese pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Experiment with different herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a personal touch. Enjoy this quick, creamy delight!