Description
Elevate your pasta night with this indulgent dish that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with a smoky twist. Perfect for weeknights or weekend indulgence, this pasta is both comforting and gourmet.
Ingredients
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Pasta (penne, rigatoni, spaghetti, or your choice)
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Smoked cream cheese
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Olive oil or butter
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Garlic, minced
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Onion, chopped
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Milk or reserved pasta water (for thinning the sauce)
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Parmesan cheese (optional)
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
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Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or your choice)
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Crushed red pepper flakes (optional
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a pan, heat olive oil or butter. Sauté chopped garlic and onion until soft and fragrant.
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Add Smoked Cream Cheese: Add smoked cream cheese to the pan and stir until it melts and becomes creamy.
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Thin the Sauce: Gradually add pasta water or milk to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
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Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. Stir in parmesan if using.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese or herbs.
Notes
Use freshly cooked pasta so the sauce clings better.
Smoked cream cheese can be store-bought or homemade with a smoker.
Don’t skip reserving pasta water—it’s key to a silky sauce.
Add parmesan gradually to avoid clumping.
Garnish just before serving for the freshest flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Smoked cream cheese pasta, creamy pasta, smoky pasta, comfort food, weeknight dinner, easy pasta recipe, one-pot pasta, flavorful pasta, gourmet pasta, homemade pasta sauce