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Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe with Butter Parmesan Dump and Bake

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A quick and easy dump-and-bake lemon pasta dish featuring buttery, cheesy, and tangy flavors that come together in one oven-safe dish for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces dry penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 60 ml)
  • Zest of one medium lemon
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 100 grams)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth (960 ml)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 ml), optional
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Handful fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter or spray your baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine dry pasta, minced garlic, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan directly in the baking dish. Toss gently to mix without breaking pasta.
  3. Add the butter pieces evenly over the pasta.
  4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, fresh lemon juice, and heavy cream (if using). The liquid should just cover the pasta. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  8. Remove foil carefully and stir the pasta gently. If it looks dry, add a splash of broth or cream. Return to the oven uncovered for 5-7 minutes to brown the top slightly.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to thicken the sauce and meld flavors.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Use room temperature butter for even melting. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam and prevent drying out. Let the pasta rest after baking to thicken the sauce. Adjust salt carefully due to broth and Parmesan saltiness. Variations include adding herbs, proteins, or making it dairy-free with vegan substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pasta, creamy pasta, dump and bake, easy dinner, butter parmesan pasta, quick pasta recipe, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://ariaappetite.com/easy-creamy-lemon-pasta-recipe-with-butter-parmesan-dump-and-bake/