Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Cream Sauce

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 8 oz angel hair pasta; Fresh parsley for garnishing; Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Meals

I absolutely love making Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Cream Sauce, as it combines lightness and richness in the most delightful way. The fresh, zesty lemon brightens the creamy sauce for a perfectly balanced dish that feels both special and comforting. This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a romantic meal. The silky texture of the angel hair pasta enveloped in the vibrant sauce will surely impress anyone you serve it to. You'll find it become a frequent favorite in your kitchen too!

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:21:36.609Z

When I first tried making this Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Cream Sauce, I was skeptical about how the flavors would meld together. I quickly discovered that the key is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the lemon and cream. The freshness of the zest really elevates the dish and makes it feel bright and alive.

Through experimentation, I found that adding a touch of pasta water to the sauce as it thickens creates a perfect emulsion, ensuring the sauce clings beautifully to the pasta. This little tip transformed my sauce from good to outstanding, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty and creamy flavor that is irresistible
Quick preparation—perfect for busy weeknights
Elegant enough for entertaining guests

Perfecting the Lemon Cream Sauce

The lemon cream sauce is the star of this dish, and balancing its flavor is essential. The acidity from the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the cream, creating a harmonious blend. The zest enhances this bright note, so make sure to zest the lemon in long, thin strips to maximize its oils. When simmering the sauce, keep it over medium heat and watch for bubbles forming around the edges; this indicates it's ready for the next step.

One of the key elements in achieving a smooth lemon cream sauce is to constantly stir while incorporating the Parmesan cheese. This not only prevents the cheese from clumping but also ensures that it melts evenly into the sauce, making it glossy and luxuriously creamy. If your sauce gets too thick during cooking, don't hesitate to adjust with a splash of pasta water—it helps maintain the sauce's luscious consistency.

Cooking the Angel Hair Pasta

Cooking angel hair pasta requires your attention, as it cooks much faster than traditional pasta forms. Always start with a large pot of heavily salted boiling water to ensure the pasta is seasoned evenly. Stir the pasta gently during the first minute of cooking—angel hair can easily stick together. You'll want to cook it just until it's al dente, which typically means a 3-4 minute cooking time, but keep an eye on it. Taste a strand a minute before the recommended cooking time to get a perfect bite.

After draining the pasta, remember to reserve that cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid acts as a wonderful emulsifier when combining the pasta with the sauce. If your pasta seems too dry or the sauce too thick, adding a few tablespoons of this reserved water can work wonders to achieve the perfect silky texture.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Cream Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Pasta

8 oz angel hair pasta
Fresh parsley for garnishing
Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Enjoy right away!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken to the pasta. Additionally, ensure your pasta is al dente for the best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch to create a creamy texture without the extra fat. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor and richness slightly, so adjust the seasoning accordingly. Additionally, you can swap out Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative to cater to dietary restrictions while still achieving a delectable dish.

For a different twist, consider adding proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish. They pair beautifully with the lemon and cream, elevating the meal further. If you're going vegetarian, sautéed mushrooms or peas add a lovely earthiness and additional visual appeal.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating can be tricky with creamy sauces, as they can separate. To prevent this, gently warm the pasta and sauce on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to bring back the creamy consistency. Stir frequently until it’s heated throughout and the sauce is smooth again.

If you're planning to make the dish ahead of time, you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately. Cook the pasta slightly less than al dente (about 2-3 minutes), drain it, and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Store both components in the fridge, then when you're ready to serve, reheat the sauce and finish cooking the pasta in boiling water for a minute before combining them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use other pasta shapes, but cooking time may vary. Adjust accordingly.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a few hours in advance but reheat gently to avoid curdling.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! The recipe is vegetarian-friendly with the heavy cream and cheese.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream.