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Radiatore Pasta in Creamy Sauce


  • Author: Dianna
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz Radiatore pasta (or any short pasta): The star of the show, Radiatore’s shape is perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce.
  • 2 tbsp butter: For richness and flavor in the sauce.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil: To add depth to the sauce without making it too heavy.
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced): For a touch of aromatic flavor that ties everything together.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: The key to that rich, velvety sauce.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): To give the sauce that cheesy, savory goodness.
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth): To balance out the richness of the cream and create a luscious, smooth sauce.
  • Salt and pepper (to taste): For seasoning and balancing the flavors.
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, optional): For a little fresh, herby finish and color.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Radiatore Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. You want your water to taste like the sea (it helps season the pasta while it cooks).
  • Add the Radiatore pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes for al dente.
  • Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

  • In a large skillet or pan, heat 2 tbsp of butter and 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and the oil to warm up.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden (but not burnt).
  • Now, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring it in with the garlic mixture. Let it simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken up slightly.
  • Next, stir in 1/4 cup of chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer). This adds a savory depth to the sauce without making it too heavy.
  • Add 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until the cheese melts into the cream. You should see the sauce becoming nice and creamy at this point.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste. You may need more or less depending on the saltiness of your broth and cheese, so taste and adjust accordingly.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Add the cooked Radiatore pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that every piece of pasta is coated in that dreamy sauce.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. This helps the sauce cling to the pasta even better.
  • Let everything cook together for 1-2 more minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the pasta absorb all that rich sauce.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

  • Once everything is perfectly combined, remove from heat and transfer to serving bowls.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for anyone who likes it extra cheesy!
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Protein: 14g