Lemon Cream Fettuccine

Name: Lemon Cream Fettuccine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; Zest and juice of 1 large lemon; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Planning

I absolutely love making Lemon Cream Fettuccine, especially when I'm craving something refreshing yet indulgent. The combination of the zesty lemon and rich cream creates a delightful flavor that dances on your palate. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for an elegant weeknight dinner or a fancy gathering with friends. I always serve it with fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and a bit of extra flavor. Trust me, this dish will impress anyone at your table!

Created by

Portia Langford

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:38:47.657Z

When I first experimented with Lemon Cream Fettuccine, I was inspired by a trip to Italy where I tasted a similar dish. I believe the secret to getting that creamy texture is not to rush the sauce. Allowing the cream to simmer gently with the lemon zest and juice enhances the flavor, making it truly unforgettable.

Another tip I’ve learned over the years is to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese—not only does it melt beautifully into the sauce, but it also adds depth to each bite. This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine, creating a dining experience that feels gourmet without being overly complicated.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The bright lemon flavor elevates this creamy pasta dish to a new level.
It’s a quick recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
The combination of fresh ingredients and rich textures satisfies every craving.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When making Lemon Cream Fettuccine, the quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the final dish. Using fresh, organic lemons enhances the dish with vibrant flavor and aroma. The zest adds essential oils that elevate the sauce, while the juice provides a refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. Always choose freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged options; it melts better and adds a more robust, nutty flavor to the sauce.

Don't underestimate the role of garlic in this recipe! Freshly minced garlic releases its essential oils, infusing the oil with aromatic depth. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider roasting the garlic before adding it to the oil. This creates a sweeter, nuttier profile that complements the lemon and cream beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

Cooking your fettuccine to al dente is crucial for the overall texture of the dish. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite, not overly soft; it should still have a little resistance when you chew it. To achieve this, start testing your pasta a couple of minutes before the package's stated cooking time. Remember to reserve some pasta water, as it contains starch that helps bind the sauce to the pasta and can adjust the sauce's consistency if it feels too thick.

To toss the pasta and sauce effectively, a large skillet is ideal. This allows for plenty of space to coat the noodles evenly without making a mess. Use tongs or a pasta fork to combine them gently, ensuring the luscious sauce clings to each strand of fettuccine. If the sauce starts to clump, add the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure everything is prepared before you start cooking for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Lemon Cream Fettuccine:

Cook the pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Prepare the sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring frequently.

Combine flavors

Once the cream is heated through, add the lemon zest and juice. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix pasta and sauce

Toss the cooked fettuccine into the skillet with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Cream Fettuccine!

Now, sit back and enjoy your homemade Lemon Cream Fettuccine!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Cream Fettuccine pairs beautifully with a variety of protein options. For a delightful contrast, consider grilled shrimp or pan-seared chicken breast. Their savory notes complement the zesty cream sauce while adding satisfying textures. A side of lemon-seasoned asparagus or a simple arugula salad can enhance the meal's freshness and balance its richness.

For a vegetarian twist, sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli can also be incorporated into the pasta. They add an earthy flavor and boost the dish's nutritional value. If you want a spicier kick, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chili can elevate the dish in a wonderful way.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the sauce's creamy consistency when reheating, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water can help restore its original texture. Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the sauce separate or become grainy.

Freezing is not generally recommended for Lemon Cream Fettuccine due to the cream's potential to change in texture when thawed. However, if necessary, you can freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta later on. This way, you can still enjoy a homemade meal without compromise to the overall quality of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegetarian substitute.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta to ensure this dish fits into a gluten-free diet.