Print

Creamy Asparagus Pasta

Creamy asparagus pasta with parmesan sauce in a white ceramic bowl.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This simple, luscious pasta is a perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly. It combines tender asparagus with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce brightened with lemon for a comforting spring dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound asparagus, tough ends trimmed and cut into 1-2 inch pieces
  • 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions for al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the asparagus pieces to the pot to blanch. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Stir in lemon zest and juice. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  5. Add drained pasta and asparagus to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until evenly coated, adding more pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
  6. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half or whole milk. Use gluten-free pasta if needed. Avoid pre-shredded cheese for a smoother sauce. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.

Nutrition