If you’re craving a pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Radiatore Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. This recipe combines the unique, ridged texture of radiatore pasta with a luscious, velvety Parmesan cream sauce that clings perfectly to every bite. It’s easy to make, elegantly satisfying, and packed with comforting flavors that make it a standout in any weeknight dinner rotation or special meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to deliver a rich and balanced flavor with every mouthful. Each ingredient plays a vital role in the sauce’s creaminess, the pasta’s texture, or the overall depth of the dish.
- 12 oz radiatore pasta: This uniquely shaped pasta captures sauce beautifully, giving you flavor in every nook.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and a subtle fruity undertone while sautéing garlic and shallots.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic depth.
- 1 small shallot (finely chopped): Provides a gentle sweetness and soft texture.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional): Adds acidity and complexity to balance the creaminess.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The heart of the sauce, making it luxuriously smooth and rich.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor essential to the sauce’s character.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat that wakes up the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Finishes the sauce with a silky texture and glossy sheen.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds freshness, color, and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make Radiatore Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Radiatore Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the radiatore pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. The ridged, ruffled edges of radiatore pasta are perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta but be sure to reserve about half a cup of the cooking water; it’s a great secret weapon to loosen the sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shallot
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the minced garlic and finely chopped shallot. Cook them gently for 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and soft without browning. This base layer bursts with flavor and sets the tone for the entire sauce.
Step 3: Add the White Wine and Reduce
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the skillet now and let it simmer for a few minutes until it reduces slightly. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the cream and cheese, lending a balanced complexity that makes this Radiatore Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes velvety smooth. Stir in the butter at the end for that luxurious, silky finish that ties everything together beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked radiatore pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. This technique ensures the sauce clings perfectly to every ridge and curve of the pasta, delivering a burst of creamy cheesy flavor with each forkful.
How to Serve Radiatore Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten this dish and add a fresh herbal note, scatter chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving. Feel free to sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese to enhance the cheesy goodness. A little cracked black pepper on top also adds a nice touch of warmth and complexity.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with simple, crisp sides like a vibrant mixed greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a plate of roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms to add texture and protein.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating this Radiatore Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce beautifully pooled around the ridged pasta. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a few whole basil leaves or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. You could even bake it with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan for a golden crust if you want to switch things up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken as it cools, so before serving leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to refresh its creaminess when reheating.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to a month. Use a freezer-safe container and separate portions for easy reheating. Keep in mind that cream-based sauces may slightly separate when frozen, so thorough stirring during reheating is important to restore the sauce’s smooth texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent scorching and to help the sauce come back to its luscious consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Radiatore pasta is ideal because of its ridges that hold the creamy sauce, but you can substitute with other pasta shapes like fusilli, cavatappi, or rigatoni that also trap sauce well.
Is the white wine necessary in this Radiatore Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe?
The white wine adds a lovely depth and subtle acidity, but it’s optional. If you prefer, you can replace it with vegetable broth or simply omit it altogether for a non-alcoholic version.
How can I make this pasta dish vegan?
For a vegan twist, use plant-based cream alternatives and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. Make sure to cook the pasta without eggs for a fully vegan meal.
Can I add vegetables or protein to this recipe?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, grilled chicken, or shrimp make excellent additions that elevate this dish from simple to spectacular while boosting its nutritional value.
What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from clumping?
Constantly stirring the sauce over moderate heat while it simmers, and incorporating the butter at the end, creates a smooth, creamy consistency. Also, adding some reserved pasta water helps keep the sauce silky and prevents clumping.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, don’t hesitate to try the Radiatore Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels special yet comes together quickly with pantry staples. Your loved ones will appreciate this rich, cheesy, and utterly delicious pasta that’s perfect for any occasion.
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Radiatore Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Radiatore Pasta recipe features ridged pasta cooked to al dente and tossed in a rich, flavorful sauce made from garlic, shallots, white wine, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Finished with butter and fresh parsley, it’s a comforting and easy Italian main course perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Paste
- 12 oz radiatore pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the radiatore pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set the pasta aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped shallot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened but not browned.
- Deglaze with Wine: If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly, enhancing the sauce’s depth of flavor.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in the unsalted butter to give the sauce a silky texture and rich finish.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked radiatore pasta to the skillet. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Toss well until every piece of pasta is evenly coated with sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy radiatore pasta immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- The ridged shape of radiatore pasta is ideal for holding onto creamy sauces, enhancing every bite.
- For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or grilled chicken.
- If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with vegetable broth to maintain moisture and flavor.
