15 Creamy Pasta Dinners the Whole Family Will Adore

If you’re looking for quick and delicious dinner ideas, creamy pasta dishes are a go-to for a reason. Packed with flavor and comfort, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table. Here are 15 creamy pasta dinners that will make your family’s mealtime enjoyable and satisfying.

Pasta Carbonara with Crispy Bacon

A plate of Pasta Carbonara topped with crispy bacon and cheese.

Pasta Carbonara is a simple yet delightful dish that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. The creamy sauce made from eggs, cheese, and crispy bacon creates a rich texture that’s both satisfying and comforting. It’s an excellent option for a weeknight dinner because it comes together quickly, making it easy to whip up even on busy days.

This dish is all about balance—the salty, crispy bacon complements the creamy sauce perfectly, while the spaghetti provides a great base. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, Pasta Carbonara is sure to impress without needing too much effort.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 6 ounces bacon or pancetta, diced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Salt, for pasta water
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Crisp the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside, keeping the fat in the pan.
  3. Mix Eggs and Cheese: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated cheese until well combined. Add a generous amount of black pepper.
  4. Combine Pasta and Bacon: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the bacon fat. Toss to combine and let it cool for about a minute (to avoid scrambling the eggs).
  5. Add Egg Mixture: Quickly stir in the egg and cheese mixture, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess.
  6. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese, black pepper, and fresh parsley if desired.

Penne alla Vodka with Spinach

A plate of Penne alla Vodka with Spinach, featuring creamy pasta and vibrant greens.

Penne alla Vodka with Spinach is a delightful dish that brings a creamy, rich tomato sauce together with tender pasta and vibrant greens. The combination of vodka and cream creates a luxurious texture, while the spinach adds a fresh touch, balancing the flavors perfectly. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great choice for a family dinner.

The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the penne, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! Even busy weeknights can accommodate this dish, offering a hearty and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup vodka
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the Tomatoes and Vodka: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vodka. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Stir in the Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream. Stir until well combined and simmer for another 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add the Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine with Pasta: Add the drained penne to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine

A bowl of lemon garlic shrimp linguine with parsley garnish

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with a light, zesty sauce. The garlic adds a savory depth, while the lemon juice brings a refreshing brightness, making every bite a celebration of flavors. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also simple enough for a weeknight dinner, ensuring your family will enjoy it without the stress of complicated cooking.

The linguine embraces the sauce beautifully, creating a creamy texture that binds everything together. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

  • 8 oz linguine
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Linguine: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Combine: Return the shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked linguine. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Stir in fresh parsley.
  5. Serve: Transfer the dish to serving plates, and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Baked Ziti with Three Cheeses

A delicious baked ziti dish with cheese and tomato sauce topped with parsley

Baked Ziti with Three Cheeses is a comforting dish that combines pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a trio of cheeses for a creamy, flavor-packed experience. It’s simple to make and perfect for family dinners, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

This dish is not only creamy but also offers a delightful blend of textures, with cheesy goodness throughout. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Assemble the Dish: In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the cheese mixture and one cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with remaining marinara and mozzarella cheese on top.
  4. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  5. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Fettuccine Alfredo with Grilled Chicken

A dish of fettuccine alfredo topped with grilled chicken and parsley

Fettuccine Alfredo with grilled chicken is a classic dish that combines creamy, rich flavors with tender pasta and succulent chicken. This comforting meal is not only delicious but also simple to whip up, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

The creamy Alfredo sauce coats the fettuccine beautifully, while the grilled chicken adds a hearty touch. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, ensuring that everyone at the table will enjoy it.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
  3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the heavy cream and garlic powder, stirring until combined. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth.
  4. Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Serve: Plate the fettuccine Alfredo, top with sliced grilled chicken, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta

A bowl of creamy pasta with broccoli and chicken

This cheesy broccoli and chicken pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious, making it a hit with the whole family. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a simple yet flavorful dinner option that can be whipped up in no time.

The combination of broccoli and chicken not only provides a great taste but also packs in some healthy nutrients. The warm, cheesy sauce wraps around the pasta perfectly, creating a dish that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Everyone will be going back for seconds!

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Add the broccoli florets to the pot during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  4. Combine: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat in the cheesy sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Serve: Once everything is heated through, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta

A bowl of creamy mushroom and spinach pasta with a side of garlic bread.

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta is a delightful weeknight dinner that combines earthy mushrooms with vibrant spinach for a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. The rich, creamy sauce wraps around perfectly cooked pasta, creating a dish that’s packed with flavor yet simple to prepare. This recipe is a great way to get your family to enjoy their veggies without sacrificing taste!

Not only is it delicious, but it also comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. With just a few ingredients, you can create a creamy, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until mushrooms are tender.
  3. Add the Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
  4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined.
  5. Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the creamy mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta

A plate of Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta with vibrant ingredients.

Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your dinner table. It’s a creamy and savory meal, perfect for any family gathering or weeknight dinner. The blend of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken creates a comforting experience with each bite.

This recipe is simple to follow, making it ideal for busy evenings. You’ll love the rich taste that pairs wonderfully with pasta, and it comes together in less than 30 minutes. Everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients

  • 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
  • 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Stir well, allowing the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add Cheese and Chicken: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and mix well.
  6. Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet until well coated with the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta!

Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini

A plate of creamy tomato basil tortellini pasta garnished with fresh basil and grated cheese.

Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of a creamy tomato sauce with tender tortellini pasta. This recipe is not only bursting with savory goodness but is also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The freshness of basil amplifies the dish, providing a bright contrast to the creamy texture.

Gather your family around the dinner table and serve this comforting pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With just a few simple ingredients, you can bring a taste of Italy right to your home!

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces cheese tortellini
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Cream: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Season: Add dried basil, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until heated through.
  5. Combine: Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce, mixing well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Pasta Primavera in Cream Sauce

A bowl of Pasta Primavera in Cream Sauce, featuring colorful vegetables and basil.

Pasta Primavera in Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of seasonal vegetables with a rich and creamy sauce. The vibrant colors of the veggies not only make it visually appealing but also add a burst of flavor that everyone will love. This dish is simple to make, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.

The creamy sauce perfectly complements the al dente pasta and tender vegetables, creating a comforting meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters at the table!

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  3. Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing well to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce and vegetables.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy warm!

Alfredo Shrimp Pasta Bake

A creamy pasta bake with shrimp, fettuccine, and cheese.

Alfredo Shrimp Pasta Bake is a delightful blend of creamy alfredo sauce, tender shrimp, and hearty pasta, all baked to perfection. This dish combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with the sweetness of shrimp, making it a comforting family favorite.

It’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious dinner on the table that everyone will love. Grab your baking dish and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

  • 12 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cups alfredo sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and shrimp. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, and alfredo sauce. Stir until well combined.
  4. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
  5. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Asparagus

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Asparagus

This Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Asparagus is a delightful dish that brings together the creamy richness of Parmesan cheese and the fresh crunch of asparagus. It’s an easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a comforting meal without a lot of fuss.

The combination of garlic and cheese creates a savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender pasta and vibrant asparagus. It’s a dish that’s not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Add the asparagus during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and asparagus to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
  5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Bacon and Pea Carbonara

A bowl of creamy Bacon and Pea Carbonara pasta topped with crispy bacon and green peas.

Bacon and Pea Carbonara combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon with the sweetness of peas, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner for the whole family.

The richness of the carbonara sauce, made from eggs and cheese, complements the salty bacon beautifully. Adding peas not only brings a pop of color but also a fresh taste that balances the dish. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy pasta that’s comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces spaghetti
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove from heat and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
  3. Combine Egg and Cheese: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Mix Everything: Quickly add the hot pasta to the skillet with the bacon drippings, tossing to coat. Then, add the egg and cheese mixture, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  5. Add Peas and Serve: Gently fold in the thawed peas. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in a skillet, topped with green onions.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful meal that combines the richness of cream with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning. This dish is not only flavorful but also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The tender chicken paired with perfectly cooked pasta creates a satisfying combination that everyone will enjoy.

The creamy sauce adds a luscious texture, while the spices give it a bit of a kick. It’s a simple recipe that brings excitement to your dining table, and it can easily be adjusted to your spice preference. Serve it with a sprinkle of green onions on top for an extra pop of color and flavor!

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning until well coated.
  3. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  6. Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and enjoy your creamy Cajun chicken pasta!

Pasta with Spinach and Artichoke Sauce

A delicious plate of pasta with spinach and artichoke sauce, garnished with fresh basil.

Indulge in a delightful pasta dish that combines the earthy flavors of spinach with the tangy goodness of artichokes. This recipe creates a creamy sauce that coats each strand of pasta beautifully, making it a comforting yet vibrant meal. With its rich taste and bright green colors, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Simple to prepare, this pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones. The combination of flavors is sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta of your choice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Spinach and Artichokes: Stir in the chopped spinach and artichokes, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it well with the sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
  6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy your delicious Pasta with Spinach and Artichoke Sauce!