Can I make this sauce without heavy cream?

Absolutely! Half-and-half works beautifully for a lighter version, and whole milk can work in a pinch (just simmer it longer to thicken). For a dairy-free twist, try coconut milk—it adds a subtle tropical note that’s surprisingly delicious with lemon.

Why does my sauce sometimes look curdled?

Don’t panic! This usually happens if the heat’s too high or you add cold lemon juice too quickly. Keep the temp low and warm the juice slightly before stirring it in. If it separates, a splash of hot pasta water and vigorous whisking will often bring it back together.

Can I freeze lemon pasta sauce?

Honestly? I don’t recommend it. The dairy can get grainy, and the lemon flavor fades. This sauce is best enjoyed fresh—but luckily, it comes together so fast!

What pasta shapes work best?

Long noodles like linguine or fettuccine are my top picks—they twirl beautifully in the creamy sauce. But short shapes like penne or farfalle work too—just toss them gently to coat every nook.

Creamy Lemon Pasta Sauce Recipe in Just 20 Minutes

Name: Lemon Pasta Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 lemons, juiced and zested; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp butter; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 8 oz pasta of your choice

Lemon Pasta Sauce

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A bright and fresh pasta sauce made with lemon, perfect for summer meals.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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2 lemons, juiced and zested
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp butter
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
8 oz pasta of your choice

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Instructions

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice. Stir well.
Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until coated.
Garnish with lemon zest and fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/creamy-lemon-pasta-sauce-recipe/