If you’re searching for a dish that brings together the rich, tangy flavors of Caesar salad with the comforting embrace of pasta, this Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe will become your new favorite. This recipe takes a classic Caesar salad and transforms it into a luscious, creamy pasta that bursts with garlicky goodness, a hint of lemon brightness, and a satisfyingly crunchy breadcrumb topping. It’s elegant enough for guests but simple enough to whip up on a weeknight, delivering bold flavors with every bite that will have you reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to hitting that perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy in this dish. Each ingredient plays an important role, whether it’s adding depth, texture, or that signature Caesar tang.
- Salted butter: Creates the base for the golden breadcrumbs, adding richness and a luscious mouthfeel.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Provide the irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Garlic powder: Amplifies the garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning both the breadcrumbs and the pasta water perfectly.
- Bucatini or spaghetti: Choose your favorite long pasta to soak up all that amazing sauce.
- Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds savory, nutty depth essential to any Caesar-style dish.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brings a bright, zesty kick that lifts the entire pasta.
- Dijon mustard: Introduces a subtle tanginess that balances the creamy sauce.
- Large egg: Helps thicken the sauce and adds lush creaminess.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté garlic and anchovies, infusing the sauce with flavor.
- Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic provides that indispensable aromatic punch.
- Anchovies, minced: A classic Caesar ingredient that brings umami depth without fishiness.
- Red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle heat that brightens the overall flavor.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Finishes with a mild spiciness to balance the richness.
- Optional garnish: fresh chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese: For color and additional flavor finishing touches.
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 sprinkle the garlic powder on top. Keep stirring gently until the breadcrumbs turn a beautiful golden brown—this not only gives you that crave-worthy crunch but also toasts the garlic flavor, making it more fragrant. Set this aside because you’ll want to sprinkle it on top just before serving.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the breadcrumbs are toasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your bucatini or spaghetti according to the package instructions. The salty water seasons the pasta from within. Before draining, scoop out and save about 1 ½ cups of the pasta cooking water—this starchy water is pure magic for loosening and enriching your sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Caesar Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and the large egg. This mixture forms the creamy backbone of your sauce and brings together sharp, tangy, and savory notes that define the Caesar flavor.
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. Cook them briefly for about a minute to soften the garlic and melt the anchovies into the oil, infusing it with that signature umami punch. This step wonderfully scents your kitchen and builds layers of flavor.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Pour the Caesar sauce mixture into the skillet with the aromatics. Stir constantly for about a minute, allowing the egg to gently cook without scrambling. Then, whisk in one cup of the reserved pasta water. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens to a creamy, luscious consistency that clings to every strand of pasta.
Step 6: Assemble the Pasta
Add your drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together so that the noodles are thoroughly coated, adding more pasta water if needed to reach your perfect creamy texture. Finally, top with the golden toasted breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy contrast between creamy, tender pasta and crunchy topping.
How to Serve Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh chopped parsley over the finished dish brightens up the presentation and adds a pop of herbaceous freshness that cuts through the richness. A little extra Parmesan on top adds another layer of savory depth, making every bite irresistible.
Side Dishes
To round out the meal, serve this Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Lightly dressed greens or grilled asparagus make perfect companions, balancing the creamy pasta with a fresh, vibrant crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, try serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls with scattered breadcrumbs and a sprig of parsley on top. Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil just before serving to add sheen and another layer of richness. For a fun twist, offer lemon wedges on the side to let guests brighten their pasta to taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken overnight, so give it a gentle stir with a splash of water before reheating.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze as well because the creamy sauce can separate when thawed. For best results, enjoy fresh or keep any leftovers refrigerated rather than frozen.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a bit of water or stock to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works fine too, but keep your eye on it to avoid scrambling the egg in the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bucatini or spaghetti works beautifully due to their shape and texture, you can try linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. Just make sure the pasta cooks evenly and holds the sauce well.
Is anchovy necessary in this recipe?
Anchovies lend authentic umami depth to the sauce, but if you’re not a fan, you can omit them or substitute with a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a milder, similar savory flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To keep it vegetarian, skip the anchovies and use extra Parmesan along with a pinch of capers to add briny complexity. The sauce will still be deliciously creamy and flavorful.
What if I don’t want to use raw egg?
The egg helps thicken the sauce, but if you’re uncomfortable with raw eggs, you can temper the egg by slowly whisking in some hot pasta water before adding it to the pan, reducing the risk. Alternatively, use a pasteurized egg for safety.
How spicy is this Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that complements the dish without overwhelming it. You can always adjust the amount to your heat preference or leave it out entirely for a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels both indulgent and fresh, simple yet sophisticated. It’s ideal when you want a comforting meal with an exciting twist on a classic flavor everyone loves. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with family and friends—the creamy sauce, vivid lemon zing, and crunchy breadcrumbs make this a pasta night winner every time.
Print
Creamy Caesar Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy Caesar pasta recipe transforms the classic Caesar salad flavors into a luscious pasta dish. With golden garlic breadcrumbs, a tangy Parmesan and lemon Caesar sauce, and the umami depth of anchovies, this dish is a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and zesty. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a satisfying meal that highlights a unique twist on traditional Caesar dressing to be enjoyed any night of the week.
Ingredients
Breadcrumbs
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 pound bucatini or spaghetti
- 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from 1–2 lemons)
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 large egg
- 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
Optional Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Make Breadcrumbs: Melt the salted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and garlic powder, then cook while stirring frequently until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crisp. Remove from heat and set aside for garnish.
- 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 1½ cups of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make Caesar Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and the large egg until smooth and well combined. Set this sauce mixture aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, minced anchovies, red pepper flakes, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about one minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant and the anchovies begin to dissolve.
- Finish Sauce: Pour the prepared Caesar sauce mixture into the skillet with the aromatics and cook for one minute, stirring continuously. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of the reserved pasta water and cook until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Assemble and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the noodles evenly with the Caesar sauce. Add additional reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired saucy texture. Top the pasta with the golden toasted breadcrumbs, fresh chopped parsley, and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Anchovies add a rich umami flavor but can be omitted if you prefer a milder taste or to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best tangy flavor in the Caesar sauce.
- To ensure safety when using raw egg, use pasteurized eggs or temper the egg by gradually adding some hot pasta water before mixing into the sauce.
- The pasta water is key to achieving a silky, emulsified sauce—don’t skip reserving it.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure the panko breadcrumbs are gluten-free or replace with crushed gluten-free crackers or nuts.
