A bright and luscious pasta dish, Creamy Lemon Garlic Fettuccine is the perfect balance of tangy citrus, aromatic garlic, and rich creaminess. With tender fettuccine coated in a smooth lemon-garlic cream sauce, this recipe offers an elegant yet simple option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients done right. The bold flavor of garlic meets the zesty punch of fresh lemon, creating a sauce that’s both refreshing and indulgent. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, requires minimal prep, and can be easily customized with proteins or vegetables. Ideal for anyone who appreciates pasta with a gourmet flair that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fettuccine
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Lemon zest
• Fresh lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh parsley
• Optional: red pepper flakes
• Lemon slices for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles evenly in the sauce. Use a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
6. Stir in chopped parsley, then serve immediately. Garnish with lemon slices and additional pepper if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Additions: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in a mix of cheeses like pecorino or fontina for a richer depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to rehydrate the sauce. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it may cause the sauce to separate.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, linguine, spaghetti, or tagliatelle work well with this creamy sauce.

How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use low heat when adding lemon juice to cream and avoid boiling once the lemon is added.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead and reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?

Yes, you can use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

What pairs well with this pasta?

A crisp green salad and crusty bread are excellent accompaniments.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer it a bit longer or add more Parmesan cheese to help thicken the consistency.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, but you may want to omit red pepper flakes to keep it mild for children.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Cream-based sauces do not freeze well and may separate when thawed, so freezing is not recommended.

What’s the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a microplane or fine grater and avoid grating the bitter white pith underneath the peel.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Garlic Fettuccine is a dish that transforms everyday ingredients into something special. With its smooth, citrusy sauce and fragrant garlic base, it’s both light and satisfying. Perfect for dinner parties or quiet nights in, this pasta offers a delicious reminder that elegance can be easy.

Print