10-MINUTE CREAM CHEESE PASTA

A lightning-fast stovetop dish that turns pantry staples into a silky, comforting dinner in about the time it takes to boil pasta. This recipe focuses on simple ingredients, minimal steps, and tricks to keep the sauce creamy without long simmering. For a light, fruity finish after this savory meal try a raspberry cream smoothie.

Ingredients and pantry swaps

Use common pantry and fridge items: dried pasta (spaghetti, penne, or shells), cream cheese, butter or olive oil, garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and a splash of pasta cooking water. Low-fat cream cheese works but will yield a slightly thinner sauce; full-fat gives the silkiest finish. A pinch of red pepper flakes brightens the flavor without added time.

Quick prep steps before boiling

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil so the pasta cooks evenly in the time allotted. Grate cheese and cube cream cheese while the water heats to shave seconds off cook time. Start a skillet on medium heat so the aromatics will be ready as soon as the pasta is al dente.

10-minute cooking method

Cook the pasta to just shy of al dente—about one minute less than package directions—so it finishes in the sauce. While pasta cooks, sauté minced garlic briefly in butter or oil until fragrant, then reduce heat. Stir in cubed cream cheese and a splash of reserved pasta water, whisking until smooth. Drain pasta quickly and toss it straight into the skillet with grated Parmesan, adding more pasta water by the tablespoon until the sauce clings to each strand. Serve immediately for best texture.

Fast flavor boosts and add-ins

Toss in quick additions that don’t add cook time: chopped fresh herbs (basil or parsley), lemon zest for brightness, pre-cooked shredded rotisserie chicken for protein, or frozen peas tossed at the end to warm through. Toasted breadcrumbs sprinkled at serving add crunch and contrast to the creamy sauce.

Timing tricks and reheating

Reserve at least 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining—starchy water is the shortcut to a glossy, emulsified sauce. Work in a warm skillet and keep heat moderate to prevent the cream cheese from breaking. For leftovers, reheat gently on low with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess without overcooking the pasta. If you want a quick dessert pairing after this meal, consider serving simple cookies like buttercream macarons for a no-fuss sweet finish.

Conclusion

This approach gives you a reliably creamy weeknight dinner in about ten minutes, focusing on timing, the right emulsifiers, and speedy add-ins. For a slightly different take on the same idea, you can compare method notes with The Clever Meal’s 10-minute cream cheese pasta, and for another quick recipe alternative see Dizzy Cook’s easy cream cheese pasta.