Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Cream Sauce

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; Salt, for the pasta water; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Fast Table Solutions

I absolutely adore this Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Cream Sauce! The bright, zesty flavor of lemon combined with the creamy texture creates an incredibly delightful dish. It’s quick and easy, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, I love how this recipe elevates a simple pasta meal into something spectacular. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a go-to in your meal repertoire.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:25:36.131Z

In my quest to create the perfect pasta dish, I stumbled upon this wonderful combination of lemon and cream. The acidity of the lemon really brightens up the dish, cutting through the richness of the cream, creating a harmonious balance. When I first prepared this, I used homemade lemon zest, which truly enhanced the flavor. The freshness made every bite unforgettable!

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily add vegetables or protein of your choice. One time, I incorporated some sautéed shrimp, and it took the dish to another level entirely! I recommend squeezing a bit of lemon juice at the end for that extra zing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright lemon flavor that lifts the dish beautifully
Creamy texture that combines perfectly with angel hair
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion

The Art of Cooking Angel Hair Pasta

When cooking angel hair pasta, precision is key. This delicate pasta requires only 2-3 minutes in boiling salted water to achieve the perfect al dente texture. It's crucial not to overcook it, as it can quickly turn mushy. Watch closely to ensure you drain it right when it becomes tender yet retains a slight bite. This quick cooking time makes angel hair the ideal companion for a rich sauce, allowing it to soak up flavors beautifully without losing its character.

After draining the pasta, remember to reserve about half a cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid acts as a magic ingredient when combining the pasta with the sauce, helping to create the desired creamy consistency. If your sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of this reserved water until it reaches the perfect sauce-to-pasta ratio.

Crafting the Lemon Cream Sauce

The lemon cream sauce is where the magic happens in this recipe. The combination of heavy cream and butter creates a luxurious base, while the fresh lemon juice and zest provide a vibrant lift. I find sautéing the butter until it’s melted and bubbling before adding the cream crucial for achieving a silky texture. Be sure to stir continuously to prevent the cream from scorching, allowing it to thicken slightly as it simmers.

Garlic powder is a great way to add depth to the sauce without overpowering the lemon flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, consider exchanging garlic powder for minced fresh garlic. Just sauté it with the butter until fragrant, then proceed with adding the cream. The choice of seasoning is up to you; adjusting the salt and pepper should always be done after tasting, to ensure the balance of zestiness and creaminess is just right.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz angel hair pasta
Salt, for the pasta water

For the Lemon Cream Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 2-3 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Make the Lemon Cream Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Stir to combine and let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For a slightly lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Additionally, feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor!

Making it Your Own

This recipe is incredibly versatile. To cater to different dietary needs, consider using a dairy-free cream alternative if you're looking for a vegan option. Coconut cream can work beautifully in this sauce, imparting a subtle sweetness that complements the lemon. For a gluten-free version, replace the angel hair with gluten-free pasta varieties, ensuring you adjust cooking times accordingly based on the package instructions.

To take this dish up a notch, try adding sautéed vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes. Their sweetness will pair well with the lemon zing and add a burst of color to your plate. Alternatively, cooked shrimp or chicken can be added for a heartier meal. Simply toss them in with the pasta just before serving, ensuring they’re warmed through for a comforting, satisfying dish.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, I recommend using a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help bring the sauce back to life. Stir gently until warmed through, avoiding high heat that could curdle the cream. Additionally, avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pasta rubbery.

For meal prep, you can cook the pasta and sauce separately, storing them in advance until ready to serve. Just remember to toss them together right before dining, allowing the dish to reheat evenly. Creating this separation helps maintain the spaghetti’s integrity, preventing it from soaking too much sauce and becoming overly mushy during storage.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with your preferred pasta. Just be mindful of the cooking times!

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a dairy-free cream substitute and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas make excellent additions to the pasta.