This Creamy Egg and Cheese Pasta is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines pasta with a creamy, cheesy egg sauce, seasoned with garlic and fresh dill. The result is a rich, comforting dish with a perfect balance of savory flavors. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal anytime, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
-
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
-
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
-
Total Time: 25 minutes
-
Yield: Serves 2-4
-
Cuisine: Italian, Comfort Food
Full List of Ingredients
-
200 g (7 oz) pasta (your choice of type)
-
100 g (3.5 oz) cheese (grated)
-
3 eggs
-
1 tsp dried garlic
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
1 tbsp butter
-
Fresh dill (chopped)
-
Optional: Italian seasoning or other spices to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese and Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. Add the grated cheese to the eggs and mix well. Season the mixture with dried garlic, salt, and pepper. For additional flavor, you can add some Italian seasoning or your favorite spices at this stage.
3. Combine Pasta and Egg Mixture
Return the cooked pasta to the pot or a large pan over low heat. Add the butter and stir until melted, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring constantly to ensure the eggs don’t scramble. The heat from the pasta will gently cook the eggs, turning them into a creamy sauce. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the pasta.
4. Finish with Fresh Dill
Remove the pasta from the heat once the sauce has thickened. Stir in the chopped fresh dill and mix well. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve
Transfer the creamy pasta to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with a little extra grated cheese and a sprig of fresh dill for an added touch of flavor and decoration. Serve immediately and enjoy this rich, creamy dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
-
Calories: 350
-
Fat: 18g
-
Saturated Fat: 8g
-
Cholesterol: 180mg
-
Sodium: 420mg
-
Carbohydrates: 32g
-
Fiber: 2g
-
Sugars: 2g
-
Protein: 15g
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This dish is inspired by classic Italian pasta recipes that use simple ingredients like eggs, cheese, and garlic to create a rich and creamy sauce. While pasta with eggs is often a staple in Italian cuisine, variations of creamy egg and cheese pasta are found across different regions. The use of fresh herbs like dill in the final step adds a refreshing note, making this dish both comforting and flavorful.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
-
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a fast weeknight dinner.
-
Rich and Creamy: The egg and cheese sauce creates a creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
-
Versatile: You can add any additional spices, herbs, or vegetables you like, making this recipe adaptable to your preferences.
Health Benefits
-
Eggs provide high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
-
Cheese is a good source of calcium, which helps support bone health.
-
Fresh Dill contains antioxidants and vitamin K, which are important for overall health and wellness.
Serving Suggestions
-
With Salad: Pair this creamy pasta with a light green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
-
With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside a piece of garlic bread for an indulgent meal.
-
With Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Cooking Tips
-
Don’t Overcook the Eggs: Stir constantly when adding the egg and cheese mixture to the pasta to avoid scrambling the eggs. The residual heat from the pasta should be enough to cook the eggs into a creamy sauce.
-
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill will elevate the flavor of this dish. Feel free to experiment with different herbs.
-
Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little pasta water or extra kefir to reach your desired consistency.
Variations to Try
-
Add Vegetables: You can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms to make this dish even more filling and nutritious.
-
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
-
Vegan Version: Use a plant-based cheese alternative and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) to make this dish vegan-friendly.
Conclusion
This Creamy Egg and Cheese Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the creamy texture of the egg and cheese sauce, combined with the savory flavors of garlic and fresh dill, this pasta is sure to satisfy your cravings. Easy to make and highly customizable, it’s a meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella.
2. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
It’s best to enjoy this pasta fresh, as the creamy sauce may change in texture if stored and reheated.
3. Can I use non-dairy yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute non-dairy yogurt for the kefir if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
4. Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for additional protein.
5. Can I make this pasta spicier?
Absolutely! Add chili flakes or some diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid separating the sauce.
7. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
8. How do I know when the sauce is done?
The sauce is done when it has thickened and coats the pasta evenly. Stir constantly to prevent it from overcooking.
9. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
10. How can I make this pasta gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.