Lemon Cream Fettuccine

Name: Lemon Cream Fettuccine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Recipes

I absolutely love preparing Lemon Cream Fettuccine for special occasions or simply when I want to treat myself. The bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemons combined with a rich cream sauce creates a symphony of taste that leaves everyone craving more. It’s incredibly easy to make yet feels luxurious on the plate. This dish perfectly pairs with a fresh green salad or garlic bread, and the best part is that it comes together in under 30 minutes!

Created by

Quincy Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:06:42.088Z

When I first made Lemon Cream Fettuccine, I was amazed how just a few simple ingredients could create such a delightful dish. I experimented with various lemon juice measurements and discovered that balancing the zest with cream was key to keeping it fresh without overwhelming the palate. The result was a beautifully creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly and brings a burst of flavor with each bite.

One crucial tip I learned is to use fresh lemons instead of bottled juice. The difference in taste is significant; the freshness transforms an ordinary fettuccine into something extraordinary. Don’t forget to reserve a bit of pasta water when draining, as it will help to achieve the desired creaminess!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright citrus flavor that enhances the creamy sauce
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
A comforting dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing

      

Mastering the Cream Sauce

The key to a luxurious Lemon Cream Fettuccine lies in the sauce. Using heavy cream gives the sauce a rich, silky texture that beautifully coats each strand of fettuccine. Be sure to simmer the cream gently after adding the garlic and lemon to avoid curdling. This should take about 3-4 minutes, during which the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly, achieving that desired glossiness.

Lemon zest is crucial for this recipe; it brings vibrancy and brightness that balances the richness of the cream. If fresh lemons are not available, you can use bottled lemon juice, but the zest is irreplaceable for its aromatic oils. When zesting, be careful to avoid the bitter white pith underneath the skin to maintain the sauce’s delightful flavor profile.

Perfecting the Pasta

Cooking the fettuccine to al dente is essential for the right texture in this dish. Follow the package instructions closely and taste the pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time. It should offer a slight resistance when bitten, which allows it to absorb the sauce without becoming mushy once combined.

Always remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water is a chef's secret weapon; it can be used to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick, ensuring a creamy consistency. Start with a few tablespoons and add more as needed, stirring continuously until you reach the perfect creaminess.

Ingredients

Pasta

12 oz fettuccine

Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cook the Fettuccine

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Carefully pour in the heavy cream, adding lemon zest and juice. Stir well and let simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet and toss with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired creaminess is reached.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to mix until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, consider incorporating sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken for extra protein and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Cream Fettuccine is best served immediately while the pasta is hot and the sauce is fresh. To enhance the meal, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette; the acidity will complement the creamy richness of the pasta superbly. Garlic bread can also be an excellent side, providing that satisfying crunch and buttery flavor that balances the dish.

For a potluck or family gathering, feel free to scale up the recipe easily. You can double the ingredients, and it will still come together in under 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for larger crowds. Just ensure you have a sufficiently large pot for the pasta and a spacious skillet for the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, be mindful that reheating can alter the texture of the cream sauce, making it slightly less creamy. To combat this, consider adding a splash of milk or extra cream when reheating on low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy in the sauce, which can separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze cooked fettuccine separately, then make a fresh batch of the cream sauce later if you want to enjoy this dish at a different time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole grain fettuccine?

Absolutely! Whole grain fettuccine is a great alternative and will work well with the sauce.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the sauce in advance and simply reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Lemon Cream Fettuccine?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.