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Creamy Pasta with Red Pepper Flakes

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Creamy Pasta with Red Pepper Flakes is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The creamy sauce, paired with the heat of red pepper flakes, creates a comforting yet slightly spicy dish that’s full of flavor. This pasta is easy to make, using pantry staples, and is sure to satisfy your cravings. Let’s get started!

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Table of Contents

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
  3. Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the cream simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
  4. Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Combine with Pasta

  1. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. If needed, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Serve: Serve the creamy pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Enjoy warm.

Cook’s Notes and Tips

  • Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice tolerance. You can add more for extra heat or reduce it if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is starchy and helps bind the sauce to the pasta while adding a bit of creaminess.
  • Garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic when sautéing, as it can burn quickly. Burnt garlic will give the dish a bitter taste.

Variations

  • Protein Addition: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to make the dish more filling.
  • Vegetable Add-Ins: Add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest to the sauce for a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
  • Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus make a great side dish to complement the creamy pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Half-and-Half Instead of Heavy Cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy. You may need to simmer it a bit longer to thicken.

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How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce.

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Can I Make This Dish Vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version by using coconut cream or a non-dairy cream substitute and omitting the Parmesan cheese. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

What Other Types of Pasta Work Well?

Any type of pasta works well with this sauce. Long noodles like fettuccine or linguine are great for a creamy sauce, but short pasta like penne or rigatoni also work well to catch the sauce.

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Creamy Pasta with Red Pepper Flakes is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to whip up with pantry staples. The creaminess of the sauce paired with the subtle heat from the red pepper flakes makes it a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is sure to satisfy. Gather your ingredients, cook, and enjoy this delicious dish!

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Happy Cooking!

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