Do Share Recipe

I recently made this Garlic Cream Bucatini with Peas and Asparagus Recipe on a busy weeknight, and it quickly became one of my favorite pasta dishes. I love how the garlic-infused cream sauce wraps around every strand of bucatini, while tender asparagus and sweet peas add freshness.

It feels elegant yet easy to make, which is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Everyone at my table loved the balance of creamy, garlicky, and bright lemon flavors.

If you enjoy simple but impressive pasta dishes, this recipe will become your go-to comfort meal. You can also enjoy similar breakfasts like a healthy breakfast sandwich recipe on a busy morning.

Garlic Cream Bucatini with Peas and Asparagus Recipe

Ingredients Section

Each ingredient plays an important role in creating a rich, creamy, and flavorful pasta. Fresh and quality ingredients make a noticeable difference.

½ pound bucatini pasta – Thick, hollow noodles that hold sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
½ bunch asparagus, ends trimmed and sliced diagonally (about 1½ cups) – Adds crunch and vibrant color.
4 garlic cloves, grated – Fresh garlic ensures bright, aromatic flavor.
¾ cup chicken or vegetable broth – Forms the base of the creamy sauce; low-sodium is best.
1 cup heavy cream – Creates a silky, indulgent sauce that coats pasta perfectly.
1 cup frozen peas (about half a bag) – Adds sweetness and color; stir in near the end.
Zest of 1 lemon – Enhances freshness and balances creaminess.
Lemon juice to taste – Brightens and lifts flavors.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
Golden crispies or breadcrumbs for topping – Optional crunch and extra flavor. You can also pair this with a baked cottage cheese eggs recipe for a protein-packed start to the day.

Note: This recipe serves about 4–6 people depending on portion sizes.

Variations

This pasta dish is versatile and easy to customize.

Dairy-free option – Use plant-based cream and vegan butter.
Protein addition – Add sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy pancetta.
Extra veggies – Toss in mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for more color and nutrition.
Flavor boosters – Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme before serving.
Gluten-free – Use gluten-free bucatini or your favorite pasta alternative.

Cooking Time

This dish comes together quickly and delivers restaurant-style flavors at home.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet – Used to cook vegetables and simmer the sauce.
Pasta pot – To cook bucatini to al dente.
Cutting board – Essential for prepping asparagus and garlic.
Grater or microplane – For zesting the lemon.
Ladle or tongs – For tossing pasta with sauce.

How to Make Garlic Cream Bucatini with Peas and Asparagus Recipe?

This recipe is simple yet impressive. Preparing ingredients in advance makes the cooking process seamless. The creamy sauce comes together in minutes while the pasta cooks.

Cook the Pasta

Boil bucatini in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water. This allows the sauce to cling perfectly to the noodles later.

Sauté Asparagus

In a skillet, melt butter and add sliced asparagus. Cook for 5 minutes until tender-crisp. The asparagus will continue cooking in the sauce, so a slight firmness is ideal.

Add Garlic and Broth

Stir in grated garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in broth and heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. This creates a silky base for the sauce.

Incorporate Peas and Seasonings

Add frozen peas and season with lemon zest, juice, salt, and pepper. Let simmer until peas are heated through. This step ensures vegetables are tender and flavorful.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss bucatini in the skillet with the creamy sauce over low heat. Let the flavors meld for a few minutes. Add reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired sauce consistency.

Serve with Toppings

Plate pasta and top with golden crispies or breadcrumbs. Optional additions include rotisserie chicken or sautéed shrimp. Serve immediately while creamy and warm.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my experience, a few tweaks make this pasta even more flavorful.

I like to grate garlic fresh rather than mince for more aromatic punch.
I add lemon zest at the end to keep it bright and fresh.
I toast breadcrumbs with olive oil and Italian seasoning for extra crunch.
I stir pasta gently to avoid breaking bucatini.
I sometimes sprinkle Parmesan just before serving for added richness.

How to Serve Garlic Cream Bucatini with Peas and Asparagus Recipe?

This pasta works well as a main course or part of a larger meal. Serve in deep bowls for a rustic look. Garnish with breadcrumbs, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or fresh parsley. Pair with a crisp white wine or a light salad for a complete spring-inspired dinner.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving.

Calories: 450–500 per serving
Protein: 15–18 grams, depending on added toppings
Carbohydrates: 55–60 grams from bucatini and vegetables
Fat: 20–25 grams from butter and cream

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish tastes best fresh but can be stored for convenience.

Refrigerating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

Not recommended as cream sauces can separate. If necessary, freeze before adding cream and reheat slowly with fresh cream.

Reheating

Warm in a skillet over low heat while stirring gently. Add a touch of broth or cream if sauce has thickened. Avoid microwaving to maintain creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This garlic cream bucatini with peas and asparagus delivers creamy, fresh, and easy-to-make pasta perfection. Here’s why it’s a keeper.

Quick and easy – Ready in about 35 minutes with minimal prep.
Comforting yet fresh – Creamy sauce with spring vegetables feels light but indulgent.
Versatile – Customize with proteins, veggies, or gluten-free pasta.
Elegant presentation – Great for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Crowd-pleasing flavor – Balanced garlic, cream, and lemon make it irresistible.

This Garlic Cream Bucatini with Peas and Asparagus recipe combines indulgent creaminess with fresh spring vegetables, making it an effortless yet impressive pasta dinner. Perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy weekend meals.

Ben Carraoli