Introduction
Have you ever wondered why some pasta dishes taste like they came straight from an Italian trattoria, while others fall flat? The secret lies in the perfect balance of ingredients, technique, and a touch of love. Today, we’re sharing the ultimate Pasta Wezzie recipe—a dish that’s creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, yet surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home chef, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
The Pasta Wezzie recipe combines al dente pasta with a velvety sauce, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice for a dish that’s both comforting and gourmet. Plus, we’ll share expert tips, healthier alternatives, and serving ideas to make this meal unforgettable. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need for the perfect Pasta Wezzie recipe (serves 4):
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work best)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken or turkey (substitute with beef or mushrooms for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pro Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of white wine while sautéing the onions!
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This Pasta Wezzie recipe is 30% faster than traditional creamy pasta dishes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente (check package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes).
- Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Stir in red pepper flakes, oregano, and smoked paprika for a flavor boost.
Step 3: Brown the Protein
- Add ground chicken (or substitute) to the skillet.
- Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces (5-6 minutes).
- Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine & Finish
- Toss in cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes, mixing well.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fats: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Lower-Calorie Option: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or cashew cream.
- Gluten-Free: Use chickpea or lentil pasta.
- Vegan Version: Replace meat with lentils and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
- Serve with a glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.
- For a fancy touch, top with toasted pine nuts or sun-dried tomatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta → Always aim for al dente.
- Skipping pasta water → It helps bind the sauce.
- Not seasoning properly → Taste as you go!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
- Freezing not recommended—cream-based sauces may separate.
Conclusion
This Pasta Wezzie recipe is a game-changer—quick, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, it’s a foolproof dish that never disappoints.
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. For richness, mix milk with a bit of flour or cornstarch.
What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Short, sturdy pastas like penne or rigatoni hold the sauce best.
How do I make it spicier?
Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Velveeta Cheese Pasta Recipes
Pasta Wezzie Recipe
Recipe by Mia Harper – PleaseCook4
servings10
minutes20
minutes30
minutesThis Pasta Wezzie recipe is a creamy, flavorful dish with tender pasta, savory ground meat, and a rich Parmesan sauce—ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 lb ground chicken (or turkey/beef/mushrooms)
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)
½ cup grated Parmesan (+ extra for garnish)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Salt & black pepper to taste
Fresh basil/parsley (garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta al dente, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and spices in olive oil.
- Brown ground meat, then stir in cream and Parmesan.
- Toss with pasta, tomatoes, and pasta water.
- Garnish with herbs & extra cheese. Serve hot!