This Easy Creamy Zucchini Butter Pasta is a cozy dish that’s super simple to make! With fresh zucchini, butter, and pasta, it’s packed with flavor and comfort.
You won’t believe how creamy it is, all thanks to the butter and zucchini. I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top—it makes it feel fancy without being fussed! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using spaghetti, but any pasta shape works! You can swap it with penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust cooking times per the package instructions.
Zucchini: This recipe shines with fresh zucchini. If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash is a great substitute. Just ensure it’s finely grated to blend nicely.
Butter: Unsalted butter enriches the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or a dairy-free butter spread, which can still create a lovely flavor.
Parmesan cheese: While Parmesan enhances the creaminess, feel free to use pecorino for a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast is a tasty vegan alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Make the Sauce Creamy Without Heavy Cream?
Creating a creamy sauce here relies on the combination of butter, grated zucchini, and pasta water. Here’s how to achieve that smooth texture:
- When cooking the zucchini, let it soften and release moisture, forming a light sauce.
- Add drained pasta gradually, mixing it with zucchini, which helps bind everything.
- Use reserved pasta water sparingly. Adding it a few tablespoons at a time allows you to control the thickness of the sauce. It helps create that creamy consistency.
- Always stir gently to ensure the pasta is well-coated and flavorful, taking care not to over-mix.
This method gives you a rich taste without the heaviness, making the dish satisfying and light!
Easy Creamy Zucchini Butter Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
For the Zucchini Sauce:
- 2 medium zucchinis, finely grated
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced, plus extra leaves for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of 30 minutes. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente. Once it’s cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water (this will help make the sauce creamy), and then drain the pasta in a colander.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant, but don’t let it brown!
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Next, add the finely grated zucchini to the skillet. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini softens and starts to release moisture. This will form the base of your creamy sauce!
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Lower the heat and add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the grated Parmesan cheese and sliced basil. Toss everything together. Now, slowly add the reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time, mixing until you have a creamy sauce that coats the pasta well.
5. Season and Serve:
Season your pasta generously with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and if you enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Give it one last good toss before you’re ready to serve.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of good olive oil on top. Don’t forget to add more black pepper or red pepper flakes if you like it a little spicy!
This dish is bright, flavorful, and wonderfully creamy, making it a fantastic choice for a comforting yet light meal! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Zucchini Butter Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a great choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options work well. Just remember to adjust the cooking times as needed!
What Can I Substitute For Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re out of Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works great as a vegan substitute, giving you a similar cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or a little olive oil to bring back the creaminess!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added color and nutrients. Just sauté them along with the zucchini for best results.
