Name: 5-Ingredient Linguine
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 0.5 lb linguine pasta; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 5 oz fresh spinach

When was dinner a big deal? Why was the fridge staring back empty and takeout menus were singing their siren song? What was my best friend, a 5-Ingredient Linguine? Is it faster than ordering pizza? ), and uses ingredients you probably already have lurking in your pantry and fridge. If you love pesto pasta or creamy tomato sauce, get ready to have your mind blown – this is a must try recipe. Is it possible to make a single cup of coffee with just five ingredients? Is this a5-IngredientIs a game changer for busy weeknights?

What is 5-Ingredient Linguine?

Think of it as the ultimate minimalist pasta dish. It’s essentially linguine tossed in a creamy, flavorful sauce made with just five key ingredients: linguine (of course!), heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. There are no complicated steps, no fancy techniques, and no long list of ingredients to hunt down. It’s pure comfort food, streamlined for maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy your pasta cravings.

What are some of the best recipes to make with this recipe?

Where do I start? First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. The combination of rich cream, salty Parmesan, and aromatic garlic creates a sauce that’s delicious. What makes this movie so satisfying? What I love most about this is how ridiculously easy it is. Is it possible to have a grilled cheese on the table in 20 minutes? What is it like to have a weeknight with your kids? What is the most cost effective way to do a All ingredients are pantry staples, so you can whip this up without breaking the bank. And let’s not forget the versatility! Can you customize this dish to your liking by adding vegetables, protein, or different ingredients? I even tested this with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast on top and it added an amazing depth of flavor. What is a quick and easy pasta recipe? What makes this linguine dish so special? I also find it’s a crowd-pleaser. What are some of the best family pasta recipes?

How do I make 5-Ingredient Linguine?

Quick Overview

How do I make Linguine as easy as boiling water? You’ll cook the linguine, simmer the sauce ingredients together until thickened, and then toss. Everything together for a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. How do you cook pasta? This method is particularly great because it minimizes cleanup – everything comes together in one piece. What is the best way to spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal?

Ingredients

For the Main Dish: What are some of the
* 1 pound linguine pasta – I prefer using bronze-die cut pasta for a better sauce grip. If you can find a local pasta shop, why not try Barilla? * 2 cups heavy cream – Don’t skimp on fat here! Heavy cream is essential for achieving that luscious, creamy texture. Can you try half and half in a pinch? * 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly Grated is always best! Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. I love using microplanes to get a super fine grate. * 4 cloves garlic, minced – The amount of garlic can be adjusted to taste. If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add more! Just make sure it’s minced finely to prevent any harsh bites. * 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – This adds a subtle kick of heat that balances out the richness of peppers. What is cream and cheese? If you’re sensitive to spices, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. I sometimes omit it when cooking for my kids but always add it to my own plate. * Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients. Don’t be afraid to add a pinch of salt and pepper to your sauce.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. If you’re using pasta water, make sure to reserve about 1 cup of water before draining. What is liquid gold in a sauce?

Step 2: Make the Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, add the heavy cream, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes to a large bowl. Mix well. Cook in a medium skillet over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Is it necessary to cover the back of a spoon with cream?

Step 4: Add the Parmesan

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Toss with Pasta

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your plate. What is the desired consistency I usually add about half a cup.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Serve immediately and enjoy! Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, if desired. What are some good side salads to serve with your meal?

What should I serve it with?

What is a good base for adding other ingredients to this Linguine? For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage. What are some great ways to roast vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini? What is a simple side salad with vinaigrette dressing? Would be perfect.
What is a simple lunch?Serve with crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. What are some good pairings for white wine?
For a family dinner: Add some cooked chicken or shrimp to the pasta and serve with a side of steamed broccoli. My kids love this version!

What is the best way to date someone on a romantic date?Serve with a bottle of your favorite wine and dessert. What is the perfect end to a meal? We sometimes throw meatballs in there to make it a little more filling as well, which is good. Always a big hit. What are some of the best ways to serve this dish?

How do I perfect my 5-Ingredient Linguine?

I’ve made this 5-IngredientI’ve learned a few tricks along the way.
Garlic GuidanceFor the best flavor, use freshly minced garlic. Garlic powder just won’t cut it in this recipe What are some ways to avoid burning the garlic in a sauce? Burnt garlic can taste bitter and ruin the whole dish.
What are the best cheeseWhat is the best Parmesan cheese to use? Grana Padano can be substituted for Parmesan, but I find Parmean has a slightly sharper and more consistent flavor. Is there a complex flavor that works really well in this dish?
Cream Consistency: Don’t boil the cream! Simmering it gently is key to preventing it from curdling. If the sauce does curdle, don’t panic! Just whisk it vigorously until it comes back together.

Pasta Perfection:Don’t overcook linguine. Al dente pasta is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Overcooked pasta will be mushy and won’t hold the sauce as well. If your sauce is too thick, reserve the pasta water. It’s a lifesaver.
Heat Handling:What is the best amount of red pepper flakes to use? If you’re not a fan of spices, you can omit them altogether. I’ve even added a pinch of smoked paprika for different flavor profiles.
Serving SuggestionsServe immediately for the best flavor and texture. This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, as the sauce can thicken as it sits. I’ve tried adding lemon juice at the end to brighten up the flavors, and it’s a nice addition to the recipe.

What are the best Storing and Reheating Tips

While this 5-IngredientCan you store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days? Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The sauce will thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little bit of milk or cream when cooking. I don’t recommend freezing this pasta, as the cream sauce can separate and become grainy when cut.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.

Freezing Instructions: Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

Taste Indicators: Always check for any off smells before reheating the leftover pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free linguine. I’ve tried it with a few different brands, and my favorite is Barilla’s gluten-free linguine. Just be sure to cook it according to the package directions, as gluten-free pasta can sometimes be a bit more delicate than regular pasta. You might also need to add a little extra pasta water to the sauce, as gluten-free pasta tends to absorb more liquid.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! This pasta is a great blank canvas for adding vegetables. Some of my favorites include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, peas, and cherry tomatoes. Just be sure to cook the vegetables before adding them to the sauce, or they may not be fully cooked by the time the pasta is ready. I’ve also added roasted asparagus, which is delicious.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with different cheeses! Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for Parmesan, as it has a similar salty and sharp flavor. You could also try adding a little bit of Gruyere or Fontina for a creamier, more decadent sauce. I wouldn’t recommend using a cheese that doesn’t melt well, like feta or goat cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and toss it with the sauce. You may need to add a little bit of milk or cream to the sauce to loosen it up.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter option, you can try using half-and-half or even milk, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. You may also need to simmer the sauce for a longer period of time to thicken it up. I’ve also heard of people using cashew cream as a dairy-free alternative, but I haven’t tried it myself.

Final Thoughts

This 5-Ingredient Linguine isn’t just a recipe; it’s a testament to the fact that amazing food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest ingredients, when combined with care, can create something truly extraordinary. If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s sure to impress, look no further. And if you enjoy this recipe, I highly recommend checking out my other quick pasta dishes – you might just find your next weeknight favorite! I really can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Did you add any extra ingredients? Did you make any substitutions? I’d love to hear about your variations! And if you loved this recipe, please give it a rating and share it with your friends. Happy cooking!