If you’re on the lookout for a pasta dish that packs a punch of flavor yet feels luxurious and comforting, this Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe is an absolute game changer. It combines the tangy, savory notes of classic Caesar salad with the satisfying heartiness of pasta, all coated in a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to every strand. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe brings restaurant-quality excitement straight to your kitchen in just about 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to this Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe’s irresistible charm. Each element plays a crucial role: from the crispy breadcrumb crunch to the rich, cheesy sauce, and those punchy anchovies that deliver umami like no other. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- 4 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and helps golden brown the breadcrumbs to crunchy perfection.
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs: For a delightful crispy texture that tops the pasta beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses extra garlicky warmth into the breadcrumbs.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the flavors perfectly.
- 1 pound bucatini or spaghetti: The pasta base that soaks up that creamy sauce with just the right bite.
- 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated: The sharp, salty cheese that’s the heart of the Caesar flavor.
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with a lively citrus punch.
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds subtle depth and slight tang to the dressing component.
- 1 large egg: Gives the sauce a creamy, luscious texture when cooked properly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing aromatics and anchovies without overpowering the dish.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic intensifies the overall flavor and aroma.
- 2 ounces anchovies, drained and minced: Key to authentic, savory umami flavor, don’t skip these.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle spicy kick that keeps things interesting.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds background heat and complexity.
- Optional garnish: fresh chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese: For that lovely finishing touch.
How to Make Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Make the Breadcrumbs
Start by melting the salted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the panko breadcrumbs and garlic powder. Stir frequently until they turn a gorgeous golden brown color and smell toasted. This crunchy topping adds a texture contrast that brings the dish alive, so don’t rush it. Once done, set aside and keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then cook your bucatini or spaghetti according to the package directions until just al dente. Before draining, be sure to scoop out and reserve about 1½ cups of the pasta water. This starchy water is pure magic for adjusting the creaminess of your sauce later.
Step 3: Whisk the Caesar Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and the large egg. Whisk these together thoroughly to create the base of your sauce—it’s tangy, cheesy, and full of character. Set this bowl aside; it will come alive in the skillet shortly.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics and Anchovies
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, anchovies, red pepper flakes, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir and cook for just about a minute until fragrant, allowing the anchovies to melt and infuse their deep umami flavor. This step forms the backbone of the sauce’s savory richness.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Pour your Caesar sauce mixture into the skillet with the aromatics, letting it cook gently for about a minute. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of the reserved pasta water, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens to a luscious, creamy consistency. This step is key to getting your sauce perfectly smooth and clingy without scrambling the egg.
Step 6: Toss Pasta with Sauce and Assemble
Add the cooked pasta right into the skillet, tossing it thoroughly to coat every strand in that glorious sauce. If it feels too thick, add some of the remaining pasta water gradually until it reaches your ideal consistency. Finish by sprinkling the toasted breadcrumbs and fresh parsley on top along with extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for the freshest flavors and textures.
How to Serve Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brightens the dish with a pop of color and freshness, while extra shaved Parmesan cheese adds a snowy, savory finish. Don’t hesitate to pile on those golden breadcrumbs right before serving to maintain their satisfying crunch.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides like a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts. These help balance the richness of the creamy Caesar pasta while keeping the meal vibrant and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser, serve this Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe in a large pasta bowl garnished with whole anchovy fillets and lemon wedges for an extra fancy touch. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a sprig of fresh herbs and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a restaurant-style presentation at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because the sauce is delicate, the pasta might absorb some moisture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a short timeframe.
Freezing
Freezing Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe is not ideal, as the sauce’s texture can separate upon thawing. For the best quality, prepare only what you’ll eat or store leftovers refrigerated instead.
Reheating
When reheating refrigerated leftovers, warm gently in a skillet over low heat while adding a splash of water or broth to bring back the creamy texture. Stir frequently to avoid overcooking the egg-based sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bucatini or spaghetti work beautifully for their texture and ability to hold sauce, feel free to swap in fettuccine, linguine, or even penne depending on what you have available or your personal preference.
Is it safe to use raw egg in the sauce?
The egg is gently cooked in the skillet with the other ingredients, which helps reduce any safety concerns. If you’re worried, use a pasteurized egg or cook the sauce just until it thickens to ensure it’s safe and delicious.
What if I don’t like anchovies?
Anchovies add signature umami, but if you prefer to skip them, you can use a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of soy sauce for some depth. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
To adapt for vegan or dairy-free diets, use plant-based butter, nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and substitute the egg with a vegan egg replacer. Omitting anchovies means you’ll want to accent the dish otherwise for umami, perhaps with miso paste or olives.
How do I keep the breadcrumbs crispy?
Toast the breadcrumbs just before serving and sprinkle them on right at the end. If you add them too early, especially once the pasta is hot and saucy, they’ll soften quickly and lose their crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s comfort food elevated with bold, fresh flavors and a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe brings joy to the table with every creamy, garlicky bite. Dive in and savor the magic!
Print
Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Caesar Pasta recipe transforms the classic Caesar salad flavors into a rich, tangy pasta dish with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Combining a homemade Caesar sauce with garlic, anchovies, Parmesan, and a hint of lemon, this hearty and comforting recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal that serves four.
Ingredients
Breadcrumb Topping
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Pasta
- 1 pound bucatini or spaghetti
Caesar Sauce
- 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from 1–2 lemons)
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 large egg
Aromatics and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ounces anchovies, drained and minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Make Breadcrumbs: Melt the salted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the panko breadcrumbs and garlic powder. Cook, stirring frequently, until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to be used as a crunchy topping.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bucatini or spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 ½ cups of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make Caesar Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and the large egg. Set this mixture aside; it will form the base of the creamy Caesar sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, anchovies, red pepper flakes, and freshly ground black pepper. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant and the anchovies begin to dissolve, infusing the oil.
- Finish Sauce: Pour the prepared Caesar sauce mixture into the skillet with the aromatics. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of the reserved pasta water and continue cooking, whisking, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Assemble and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat each strand with the Caesar sauce. Adjust the consistency by adding more reserved pasta water if necessary. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a bowl, then sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs on top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Anchovies add authentic Caesar flavor but can be omitted or substituted with a teaspoon of anchovy paste if preferred.
- Ensure to reserve enough pasta water as it is key to creating a smooth, emulsified sauce.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright, tangy flavor.
- The egg in the sauce is cooked gently in the skillet to avoid scrambling, lending creaminess without raw taste.
- For a vegetarian version, omit anchovies or use a vegetarian equivalent.
