It was one of those busy weeknights when I felt the clock ticking faster than usual. I had just come home from work, and my family was already asking, “What’s for dinner?” My mind raced through a list of complicated recipes, but I knew I needed something quick and easy. That’s when I remembered my Quick Creamy Pasta Delight recipe. It was simple and delicious, and I could make it in my trusty Instant Pot!
Cooking with Joy
I gathered my ingredients and began to prepare. The butter melted in the pot, filling the kitchen with a warm, comforting smell. I minced garlic and added it to the butter, stirring gently as it sizzled. My heart raced with excitement as I poured in the chicken broth and heavy cream. The creamy sauce looked so inviting, and I couldn’t wait to mix in the fettuccine pasta go-to recipes. I even decided to add some sliced chicken for a little extra protein. It felt great knowing that dinner would be ready in just a few minutes.
The Magic of One Pot
As the Instant Pot worked its magic, I cleaned up the kitchen, enjoying the quiet moments. I could hear the gentle hissing of steam building up inside. When the timer went off, I carefully released the pressure and opened the lid. The pasta was perfectly cooked, coated in a rich, creamy sauce. I stirred in the grated parmesan cheese, watching it melt into the dish. I couldn’t help but taste a small spoonful. It was so good that I could hardly wait for my family to join me at the table!
When I served the Quick Creamy Pasta Delight, my family’s eyes lit up. They loved the creamy texture and the tender chicken pieces nestled among the pasta. As we sat around the table, laughter and happy chatter filled the air, and I realized how much I love to cook Quick Creamy Pasta Delight. It was one of those meals that brought us together, reminding me of how simple ingredients can create wonderful memories. I love to cook Quick Creamy Pasta Delight and I realized that even on the busiest days, a delicious home-cooked meal could still be just a few minutes away.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Quick Creamy Pasta Delight
- Use high-quality butter and fresh garlic for the best flavor. Fresh garlic gives a more robust taste compared to garlic powder.
- Halving the fettuccine not only makes it easier to cook in the Instant Pot but also helps in even coating with the sauce.
- If using chicken, ensure it’s sliced thinly for quicker cooking. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and consider adding vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition.
- Keep an eye on the sauce’s thickness; it will continue to thicken as it sits. If it’s too thick after resting, you can stir in a bit more cream or reserved chicken broth.
- Taste the sauce before serving; you may want to adjust the seasoning. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a nice kick.
- For a fresh touch, garnish the pasta with chopped fresh parsley or basil just before serving.
Quick Creamy Pasta Delight
4
servings10
minutes6
minutes407
kcal10
minutes26
minutesDive into the world of creamy pasta with this Quick Creamy Pasta Delight! Perfectly cooked in an Instant Pot, this dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Imagine the rich, velvety sauce clinging to every strand of pasta, with optional tender chicken pieces adding a protein punch. It’s a one-pot wonder that promises minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is your ticket to a restaurant-quality meal at home. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delectable dish!
Ingredients
3 tbsp unsalted butter divided into small chunks
4 large garlic cloves finely minced or 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
2 cups reduced-sodium chicken stock
1 ¼ cups heavy whipping cream separated
½ tsp sea salt adjust to taste
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
8 oz fettuccine pasta halved for easier cooking
1 lb boneless chicken breasts sliced in half (optional)
1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
Directions
- Preparing the Base Instant pot – Begin by placing the butter and minced garlic into the Instant Pot. Allow the butter to melt slightly before adding the chicken stock and one cup of heavy cream. Stir gently to combine.
- Adding Pasta and Chicken Instant pot – Break the fettuccine in half and layer it randomly in the pot. If using chicken, place the pieces evenly over the pasta. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Instant pot- Prepare the creamy sauce.
- Final Touches and Serve -Shred the chicken and return it to the pot along with the parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
Equipment
- instant pot
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated parmesan cheese as it melts better than pre-grated varieties. Serve this creamy pasta with a side of crusty bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor!
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 407kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Potassium: 320mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Vitamin A: 700IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 220mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ-Quick Creamy Pasta Delight
Can I make this dish without chicken?
Yes! You can simply omit the chicken for a delicious vegetarian meal. Consider adding vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
What type of pasta can I use besides fettuccine?
While fettuccine works best, you can substitute it with any pasta shape, like penne, rotini, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or broth to help restore the sauce’s creaminess when reheating.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and replace parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little cream or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.
