Sour Cream Pasta

Sour Cream Pasta is a delightful twist on classic creamy pasta dishes, offering a richer and tangier flavor profile that’s both comforting and unique.

This dish combines the luxurious texture of sour cream with subtle seasonings, making each bite a creamy, savory experience with just a hint of tanginess.

Unlike heavy cream-based sauces, sour cream brings a lighter, slightly acidic quality, balancing well with the pasta and giving it a refreshing lift.

Often, it’s complemented by fresh herbs like chives or dill and sometimes a sprinkle of cheese, creating a satisfying yet simple meal.

How To Make Sour Cream Pasta?

Preparation Times: 10 minutes

Cooking Times: 20 minutes

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 4 servings

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Fine grater for Parmesan cheese
• Chopping knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup full-fat sour cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino for extra sharpness)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• 12 oz cooked pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the oil and butter

Add the olive oil and butter to a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely, combining with the olive oil. This will add richness and flavor to the base of your sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the garlic and shallot

Add the minced garlic and finely chopped shallot to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become soft and aromatic. Be careful not to brown them; that could make the sauce bitter.

Step 3: Add the milk and sour cream

Pour in the milk, followed by the sour cream. Whisk the mixture gently until it’s smooth and starts to heat through. Let it simmer lightly to bring the flavors together but do not let it boil to avoid curdling the sour cream.

Step 4: Stir in the parmesan cheese

Add the grated Parmesan (or Pecorino for a bolder flavor) to the skillet. Stir well until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, cohesive texture.

Step 5: Season the sauce

Add salt and black pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the seasonings to your preference, tasting as you go.

Step 6: Toss in the pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly with the sauce. Ensure each piece of pasta is well-covered, allowing it to soak up the rich flavors.

Step 7: Add fresh herbs

Sprinkle the chopped parsley and basil (if using) over the pasta. These fresh herbs will brighten the dish and add a hint of freshness.

Step 8: Serve and enjoy

Transfer the pasta to serving plates, garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy immediately. This creamy, tangy, and savory pasta sauce is best served warm for maximum flavor.

Nutrition Facts Of Sour Cream Pasta

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Serving Suggestions

✔ With a Side Salad: I often serve this with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.

✔ Garlic Bread: A slice of crispy garlic bread complements the creamy sauce and adds a crunchy texture to the meal.

✔ Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables, like asparagus or bell peppers, add color and a smoky flavor that pairs well with the pasta.

Tips and Variations

✔ Balance the acidity: If the sour cream tastes a bit tangy, add a pinch of sugar to balance it out.

✔ Creamier sauce: For an extra creamy texture, use heavy cream instead of milk, but be cautious with the sour cream so the sauce doesn’t separate.

✔ Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a colorful, nutrient-packed twist.

✔ Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even smoked salmon for a heartier meal.

✔ Spice it up: For more heat add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Health Benefits Of Sour Cream Pasta

Protein and calcium: With Parmesan and sour cream, this dish offers a good source of protein and calcium, supporting bone and muscle health.

Healthy fats: Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

Herbs for freshness: Parsley and basil bring antioxidants and, add fresh flavor without adding calories or fat.

Special Note

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. This adds a subtle brightness and depth that complements the creamy sauce.

FAQS

Conclusion

This sour cream pasta recipe is a satisfying and versatile dish that I’m sure will become a staple in your kitchen.

Whether you make it for a comforting dinner on a cool night or as a cozy lunch, it’s a great way to enjoy a creamy pasta dish without heavy cream.

The balance of garlic, Parmesan, and sour cream creates a flavor profile that feels rich but remains light.