Brown Butter Lemon Cream Pasta
Golden brown butter and bright lemon make this the ultimate cozy pasta dish. If you don’t feel like cooking tonight, this is your answer. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's creamy, cozy, and fancy-feeling without the effort.
Ingredients
mafaldine pasta12oz
butter3tbsp
garlic, minced4clove
lemon zest1- lemons, juiced (start with 1)1 1/2
heavy cream1 1/2cups
grated Parmesan3/4cup
reserved pasta water1/2cup
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: chili flakes, basil, or parsley
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
465.0kcal (23.25%)
Protein
14.1g (28.26%)
Carbs
34.4g (12.49%)
Sugars
1.2g (2.4%)
Healthy Fat
10.1g
Unhealthy Fat
19.2g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Brown Butter Lemon Cream Pasta
- Step 1
Boil the pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water.
- Step 2
In a pan, brown the butter over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Step 3
Lower the heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.
- Step 4
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Let it simmer gently.
- Step 5
Add the grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Stir until combined.
- Step 6
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Step 7
Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley and additional lemon zest if desired.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
465.0kcal (23.25%)
Protein
14.1g (28.26%)
Carbs
34.4g (12.49%)
Sugars
1.2g (2.4%)
Healthy Fat
10.1g
Unhealthy Fat
19.2g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Start with the juice of one lemon and adjust to taste for the perfect balance of brightness.
For extra flavor, toast the chili flakes in the butter before adding the garlic.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
If you don’t have mafaldine pasta, substitute with fettuccine or linguine.
FAQS
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute mafaldine pasta with fettuccine, linguine, or any other long pasta of your choice.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter as a substitute, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
How do I know when the butter is browned?
The butter will turn golden brown and develop a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
What herbs work best as a garnish?
Fresh basil or parsley work wonderfully as garnishes, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
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Carly's Cookbook
(@carlyscookbook)
I’ve got your dinner plans! 🍋healthy(ish), simple recipes for every home cook I’ve got your dinner plans! 🍋healthy(ish), simple recipes for every home cook...
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