When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a rich and creamy pasta dish. And when you add the tangy flavor of cream cheese to the mix, you’ve got a match made in heaven! In this article, we’re excited to share 18 of our favorite creamy cream cheese pasta recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From classic flavors like garlic parmesan and spinach and artichoke, to more adventurous options like spicy Cajun and truffle oil, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Garlic Parmesan Cream Cheese Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and cream cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese and grated parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with garlic. Pour in the cream cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Cream Cheese Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish packed with spinach, artichoke hearts, and a tangy cream cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the spinach-artichoke mixture until the pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Cheese Pasta
Add a burst of flavor to your pasta dish with this simple and delicious recipe. Sun-dried tomatoes and cream cheese come together to create a rich and creamy sauce that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, combine sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, garlic, and parsley. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and creamy (about 5 minutes).
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the tomato-cream sauce until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Cream Cheese Pasta
This refreshing pasta dish combines the brightness of lemon zest with the creaminess of herb-infused cream cheese, all wrapped up in a light and easy-to-make package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add softened cream cheese and stir until smooth.
3. Add chopped parsley, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Stir in lemon juice and cooked pasta. Toss until pasta is coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Pea Cream Cheese Pasta
A creamy and savory pasta dish that combines the richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of peas and smokiness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup of fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Saute for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the peas to the skillet and saute for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender.
5. Stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, bacon, and pea mixture. Toss until well combined.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Cream Cheese Pasta
This rich and creamy pasta dish combines sautéed mushrooms and thyme with a tangy cream cheese sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in thyme leaves and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese and heavy cream. Microwave for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and cream cheese sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Cream Cheese Pasta
This spicy twist on classic cream cheese pasta combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with a creamy sauce and al dente penne pasta. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Cream Cheese Pasta
This recipe combines the classic flavors of pesto with the richness of cream cheese, creating a creamy and savory pasta dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 3 tbsp. softened cream cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine pesto, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta to the saucepan and toss to combine with the pesto-cream cheese mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Cream Cheese Pasta
Roasted Red Pepper Cream Cheese Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines roasted red peppers with tangy cream cheese and al dente penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
– 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the red peppers for 30-40 minutes or until charred and blistered.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth. Pour in heavy cream and whisk until combined.
4. Remove the roasted red peppers from oven and peel off skin. Dice into bite-sized pieces and add to the cream sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the cream sauce and toss until coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Cream Cheese Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines tender broccoli, rich cheddar cheese, and a creamy cream cheese sauce to create a satisfying meal perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese to the cream mixture and stir until melted and well combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional broccoli florets if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion Cream Cheese Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions and tangy cream cheese in this comforting pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Stir in heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the caramelized onion mixture until well combined.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tomato Basil Cream Cheese Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and cream cheese to create a rich and satisfying pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and garlic. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Stir in softened cream cheese until smooth. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-basil sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Cream Cheese Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this indulgent chicken alfredo cream cheese recipe! This rich and satisfying dish is perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine pasta
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 12 ounces (340g) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, whisk together cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, whisking constantly, for about 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the sauce and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken sauce; toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp Scampi Cream Cheese Pasta
A decadent yet effortless pasta dish combining succulent shrimp, garlic butter, and a rich cream cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and reserved pasta water in the skillet. Toss to coat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your creamy Shrimp Scampi Cream Cheese Pasta!
Buffalo Chicken Cream Cheese Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this mouth-watering buffalo chicken cream cheese recipe that combines the bold flavors of spicy chicken and tangy cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter
– 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and shred into bite-sized pieces.
3. In the same skillet, add Frank’s RedHot sauce and stir to combine with melted butter. Bring mixture to a simmer for 1-2 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and buffalo sauce mixture in a large serving dish. Toss until well coated.
6. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the top and toss until creamy and combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Truffle Oil Cream Cheese Pasta
Experience the rich flavors of truffles in this decadent pasta dish. With a creamy sauce and tender noodles, every bite is a delight for the senses.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine truffle oil, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth over low heat.
3. Add cooked pasta to the saucepan, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini and Corn Cream Cheese Pasta
Zucchini and Corn Cream Cheese Pasta Recipe
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful dish, packed with zucchini, corn, and a hint of cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 6 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 4 tbsp. of butter over medium heat. Add zucchini and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add corn kernels and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
5. Combine cooked pasta, zucchini mixture, and cream cheese mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Vegan Cream Cheese Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of vegan cream cheese with the simplicity of a classic tomato sauce, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying and creamy meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup vegan cream cheese (softened)
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup non-dairy milk
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the softened vegan cream cheese, tomato sauce, and non-dairy milk. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the dried basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and creamy sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the creamy goodness with these 18 mouthwatering cream cheese pasta recipes! From classic garlic parmesan to decadent buffalo chicken, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at spinach and artichoke, sun-dried tomato, lemon herb, or roasted red pepper variations. If you’re a meat-lover, go for bacon and pea, mushroom and thyme, or caramelized onion. And don’t forget about the vegan option! Each dish combines rich cream cheese with pasta, creating a truly satisfying meal. Get cooking and indulge in these creamy delights!
