Imagine twirling strands of pasta enveloped in a dreamy, velvety sauce that dances on your palate. This Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta is not just a dish; it’s an experience. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish delivers on all fronts.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This creamy goat cheese pasta is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of soft goat cheese and half-and-half creates a rich, luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. It’s an ideal option for any weeknight meal, and it can be ready in under 30 minutes! Plus, the fresh basil and lemon juices add a refreshing brightness that elevates the entire dish. It’s simple, satisfying, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredient Checklist
To create this mouthwatering Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces dry penne
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 6 ounces soft goat cheese
- 1 cup half-and-half cream
- 1 cup fresh basil, sliced chiffonade
- 2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Tools of the Trade
Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have these essential tools:
- Pasta pot: For boiling your penne to al dente perfection.
- Skillet: To create the creamy sauce and combine all ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Grater: To freshly grate your Parmesan cheese.
Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of dry penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the penne and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
Step 3: Create the Creamy Base
Stir in the 6 ounces of soft goat cheese and 1 cup of half-and-half cream into the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Add the sliced chiffonade of 1 cup of fresh basil, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of pepper to the sauce. Mix well to combine. The fresh basil will add a lovely flavor and vibrant color to your sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained penne to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce until every piece is coated. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Finish with Lemon
Stir in the juice and zest of 1 lemon. This added acidity will brighten the sauce and complement the creamy goat cheese beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Plate the creamy goat cheese pasta and sprinkle 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Seasonal Spins
Feeling adventurous? Here are some seasonal twists you can try with your Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta:
- Add roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for a summer touch.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms in the fall for an earthy flavor.
- Mix in some fresh spinach or arugula towards the end of cooking for a burst of color and nutrients.
- For a winter warmth, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the creamy sauce.
Author’s Commentary
This Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta recipe is one of my go-to meals for busy weeknights. It’s comforting yet elegant enough for dinner parties. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability; you can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have in your pantry. I’ve even made variations with different types of cheese, such as feta or ricotta, and they all turned out deliciously. Don’t hesitate to experiment!
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To enjoy the best flavors, I recommend serving your Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta immediately after preparing it. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or half-and-half to revive the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for this recipe, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or farfalle.
Is goat cheese necessary for this recipe?
While goat cheese provides a unique flavor, you can substitute it with cream cheese or ricotta for a different twist. The creaminess will still be there!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with this pasta?
This Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. For an elevated meal, consider serving alongside Creamy Pesto Tortellini With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes or Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Rigatoni With Italian Herbs.
To round off your meal on a sweet note, consider these delightful desserts:
Hungry for More?
If this Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta has whetted your appetite for more delicious recipes, stay tuned! There are endless possibilities in the world of pasta, and I can’t wait to share more with you soon. Each recipe is crafted with love and a desire to bring comfort and joy to your dining table.
Get ready to explore and indulge in the delightful flavors that await!
Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of dry penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the penne and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
- Stir in the 6 ounces of soft goat cheese and 1 cup of half-and-half cream into the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the sliced chiffonade of 1 cup of fresh basil, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of pepper to the sauce. Mix well to combine. The fresh basil will add a lovely flavor and vibrant color to your sauce.
- Add the drained penne to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce until every piece is coated. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the juice and zest of 1 lemon. This added acidity will brighten the sauce and complement the creamy goat cheese beautifully.
- Plate the creamy goat cheese pasta and sprinkle 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a splash of water or half-and-half when reheating to revive the creamy texture.
