When it comes to pasta dishes, a rich and creamy sauce can elevate the entire meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like garlic parmesan or something more adventurous like lobster bisque, there’s a creamy pasta sauce recipe out there for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering options that are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wondering how you ever lived without them.
From comforting favorites like mushroom stroganoff to flavorful twists like roasted red pepper cream, these sauces are the perfect way to add some excitement to a weeknight dinner or impress your guests at a special occasion. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and let the pasta sauce flow!
Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful garlic parmesan cream sauce! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a decadent and indulgent sauce that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with the classic comfort of Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sun-dried tomatoes (drained and rinsed)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Whisk in flour, salt, and pepper to make a roux; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Fold in chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
8. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach Artichoke Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful sauce that combines the best of spinach, artichokes, and creamy cheese. Perfect for a comforting meal or as a dip for vegetables or bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped artichoke hearts in 1 tablespoon of butter until tender.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the sauce to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Serve over cooked pasta and enjoy!
Mushroom Stroganoff Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful mushroom stroganoff sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This creamy sauce is made with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and a hint of Dijon mustard.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly. Season with Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve warm over cooked pasta, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or pizza nights with this creamy and flavorful Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and velvety sauce that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into a rough puree.
4. In a saucepan, combine the roasted pepper puree, heavy cream, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Four Cheese Pasta Sauce
This indulgent sauce combines four distinct cheeses for a truly decadent pasta dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cheesy cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the Parmesan, mozzarella, and ricotta cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm over cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Avocado Basil Cream Sauce
Add a creamy twist to your pasta dishes with this healthy and flavorful Avocado Basil Cream Sauce recipe. Made with ripe avocados, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese, this sauce is perfect for those looking for a dairy-free and vegetarian alternative.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, basil leaves, heavy cream or non-dairy milk, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Serve immediately over pasta, vegetables, or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Pasta Sauce
This autumnal pasta sauce combines the warmth of pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for a cozy fall evening. This recipe makes about 2 cups of sauce, enough for 4-6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cubed pumpkin, chopped sage, and canned tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the sauce for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
6. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the sauce to your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gorgonzola Sauce
Elevate your dishes with this rich and savory sauce, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip. This caramelized onion and Gorgonzola combination is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Add the butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Tips:
– For a deeper flavor, use a mixture of sweet and yellow onions.
– Experiment with different types of cheese, such as blue or goat cheese, for unique variations.
Lobster Bisque Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and decadent Lobster Bisque Pasta Sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound lobster meat, diced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add lobster meat and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
5. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Truffle Oil and Mushroom Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or vegetables with this rich and earthy sauce that combines the deep flavor of truffle oil with sautéed mushrooms and creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the truffle oil and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce simmers slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the sauce over cooked pasta, vegetables, or as a dip for bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Sauce
Add a spicy kick to the classic Italian dish with this Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Sauce recipe! This creamy sauce combines the flavors of garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper with succulent shrimp for a unique twist on a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fettuccine pasta for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in paprika and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve over cooked fettuccine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful Pesto Cream Sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in the pesto sauce and garlic powder. Reduce heat to low.
4. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon and Pea Carbonara Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory, and flavorful Bacon and Pea Carbonara Sauce recipe! This Italian-inspired sauce is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the peas and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked bacon and peas to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your liking (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Vodka Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy tomato vodka sauce. The perfect combination of tangy tomatoes, savory vodka, and velvety cream will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz (794g) can crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1/2 cup vodka (at least 35% ABV)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vodka, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot over cooked pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Wine Garlic Butter Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes, seafood, or chicken with this rich and creamy White Wine Garlic Butter Sauce. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and aromatic sauce in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the white wine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the liquid is almost completely reduced.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Smoked Salmon Dill Cream Sauce
Elevate your appetizers or sandwiches with this rich and tangy Smoked Salmon Dill Cream Sauce. The combination of smoky salmon, fresh dill, and creamy Greek yogurt is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon, Greek yogurt, chopped dill, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep time only)
Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce
Elevate your favorite dishes with this bright and tangy sauce that combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and cream. Perfect for pasta, chicken, or vegetables, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the lemon juice and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes, or until slightly reduced.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 creamy sauce recipes! From classic garlic parmesan to bold sun-dried tomato and rich lobster bisque, there’s a sauce for every taste. Try the spinach artichoke pasta sauce for a party-perfect main course, or the truffle oil and mushroom cream sauce for a decadent treat. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and lemony or hearty and comforting, these creamy sauces are sure to satisfy your cravings.