Craving a comforting yet elegant meal that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than this creamy, dreamy egg fettuccine pasta recipe! This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, satisfying both your taste buds and your desire for a homemade, healthy meal. Forget complicated recipes and expensive takeout – this easy recipe will become a new staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients: You'll need these simple pantry staples
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta (preferably homemade, but store-bought works great too!)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions: Let's get cooking!
This recipe is designed for quick and easy cooking, perfect for busy weeknights. Here's how to prepare this delicious dish:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make the sauce bitter.
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Whisk the Eggs: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine and Simmer: Gradually add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta evenly – this should only take a couple of minutes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Tips for Pasta Perfection: Elevate your culinary skills
- Homemade Pasta: Making your own fettuccine elevates this dish to another level. While store-bought is perfectly acceptable, homemade pasta offers a unique texture and flavor.
- Don't Overcook: Al dente pasta is key! It should be firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and ruin the dish's texture.
- Low and Slow: When adding the egg mixture, stir constantly over low heat to prevent the eggs from curdling.
- Pasta Water Magic: The reserved pasta water helps create a creamy, emulsified sauce. Don't be afraid to add more if needed.
Variations: Get creative in the kitchen!
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage to the sauce.
- Spice it Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Veggie Delight: Incorporate sauteed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago, for a unique taste.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This simple yet delicious egg fettuccine recipe is a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas can be both healthy and flavorful. Enjoy this easy, homemade meal any time you're craving a comforting and satisfying dish. It's sure to become a family favorite!