Description
Luxuriously creamy radiatore pasta featuring ridged pasta coated in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce with garlic and Italian herbs. Ready in 30 minutes for an elegant weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) radiatore pasta
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
- 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add radiatore pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
- 2. While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 60 seconds until fragrant.
- 3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add cream cheese in chunks, whisking constantly until completely melted and smooth.
- 4. Gradually add Parmesan cheese while stirring, allowing each addition to melt before adding more. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- 5. Let sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened slightly. If too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time.
- 6. Add drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly using tongs until every piece is well coated.
- 7. Adjust consistency with additional pasta water if needed. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- 8. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a heartier meal. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g