Creamy Herb Pasta

Indulge in this Creamy Herb Pasta recipe, featuring perfectly cooked linguine tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is a go-to for quick weeknight meals or elegant dinners. With the option to add chicken, shrimp, or veggies, it’s versatile enough to suit any craving. Whether you’re searching for easy pasta recipes, a creamy garlic herb sauce, or a comforting Italian-inspired meal, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home!

Ingredients

Seasonings

• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon parsley

Pasta and Sauce

• ½ lb. linguine
• ½ cup dry white wine, or chicken broth (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Lemon pepper seasoning, optional (see notes)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 ¼ cups half and half (equal parts cream and milk)
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated from a block
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

To Garnish

• Fresh parsley
• Fresh lemon wedges

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Instructions

Prep Work

1. Combine half and half, chicken broth, and all seasonings in a large measuring cup. Set aside.
2. Measure out all remaining ingredients. Begin boiling a large pot of salted water for the pasta (use 2 tablespoons kosher salt for well-seasoned pasta).

Cook the Sauce

1. In a large skillet, combine white wine, butter, and garlic. Heat over medium and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the mixture reduce by half, about 4 minutes. (Optional: Add a pinch of lemon pepper seasoning for extra depth of flavor.)
2. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually whisk in the half and half mixture, adding small splashes at a time. Stir continuously and bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and partially cover the skillet.

Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the linguine to al dente, following package instructions. Drain well but do not rinse.

Finish the Dish

1. Slowly stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce over low heat until fully melted and incorporated.
2. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or freshly cracked black pepper, if desired.
4. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh parsley.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Flavorful: The perfect balance of rich Parmesan, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Can be served as a main course or a side dish alongside chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.

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Tips

• Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
• Don’t Skip the Salt: Properly salting the pasta water ensures flavorful pasta.
• Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with chicken broth for deglazing.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Additions: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Low-Fat Version: Swap half and half with whole milk for a lighter sauce.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.

What pasta works best?
Linguine is classic, but you can substitute fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne.

Can I freeze this dish?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well as they can separate upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Main Course: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a flavorful pairing.
• Enhancements: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or top with toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.

This Creamy Herb Pasta is the perfect combination of elegance and comfort. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will impress every time!