How to Make Lemon Garlicky Pasta
This is my Favorite Comfort Food
Ok, inevitably, I am a bit of a foodie, but who doesn’t love a big, heaping helping of comfort food when things feel less than fabulous? This is so easy to make, too!
Segretto Dutch Oven | Sea Salt | Fresh Garlic | Fresh Lemons | Parmesan Cheese | Red Pepper Flakes* | Ground Pepper | Ground Parsley | Fresh Cream | Spaghetti Noodles | Butter
You will be shocked how fast and easy this recipe comes together. Prep everything first, and cooking and clean up will be a breeze, too.
???? Lemony Garlicky Pasta (Made in a Dutch Oven)
Creamy. Zesty. Irresistibly cozy.
There’s something undeniably magical about a simple pasta dish that delivers comfort, brightness, and soul-satisfying flavor all in one bowl. This Lemony Garlicky Pasta is the perfect blend of creamy and light—fresh lemon and garlic bring it to life, while a touch of cream and Parmesan create that velvety finish we all crave.
Even better? It’s made in a cast iron Dutch oven, because let’s face it: everything tastes better when made in one. From the way it holds and radiates heat to the charming, rustic elegance it brings to your kitchen, it’s the ultimate go-to for meals that matter.
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????️ Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or bucatini)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 large bay leaves
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1½ cups reserved pasta water
- Fresh herbs (parsley or basil for garnish)
???? Want to Add Protein?
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp or sautéed chicken. Just cook your protein in the Dutch oven first, set it aside, and toss it back in at the end for a heartier meal.
???? Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water with 1-2 large bay leaves to a boil in your Dutch oven. Cook pasta until just shy of al dente. Reserve 1½ cups of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic
Melt butter in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Add garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
3. Add Lemon & Cream
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and cream. Slowly add 1 cup of pasta water, stirring to combine.
4. Fold in the Cheese
Reduce heat and stir in Parmesan until the sauce is smooth and glossy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Toss the Pasta
Return pasta to the pot, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add a little more pasta water if needed to loosen things up.
6. Serve & Savor
Remove the bay leaf, garnish with herbs, and serve warm. Add your shrimp or chicken if using—divine either way.
???? Serving Suggestions
Pair this with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or crisp White Bordeaux some crusty garlic bread, and maybe a little extra Parmesan on top (always a good idea).
???? Why It Works
- Lemon = Brightness
- Garlic = Depth
- Cream + Pasta Water = That glossy, luxe sauce
- Dutch oven = Flavor magic ✨
⚠️ Affiliate Disclosure
Some links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them. I only recommend products and services I truly love and use myself.
