Quick Creamy Lemon Butter Pasta with Peas Easy 15-Minute Recipe

Written by

mandy

Posted on January 9, 2026

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Pasta Recipes

January 9, 2026

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Let me tell you, the scent of butter melting gently in a pan, mingling with bright lemon zest and fresh green peas, is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I tossed together this quick creamy lemon butter pasta with peas, I was honestly surprised by how something so simple could taste so indulgent. It was one of those moments where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. This recipe came about on a rainy weekend when I wanted something comforting but couldn’t wrestle with a long cooking process. You know what? It quickly became my go-to for those hectic evenings.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma often cooked lemony dishes that brightened even the gloomiest days. This pasta brings back that nostalgic comfort but with a fresh, modern twist. My family couldn’t stop sneaking bites off the plate while it was still steaming (and I can’t really blame them). It’s dangerously easy to make and offers pure, nostalgic comfort in every creamy forkful. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute dinner, a sweet treat for your kids, or a dish to brighten up your Pinterest cookie board of dinners, this quick creamy lemon butter pasta with peas fits the bill perfectly. I’ve tested it more times than I can count—in the name of research, of course—and it’s now a staple for family gatherings, simple dinners, and even gifting in recipe form to friends. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Quick Creamy Lemon Butter Pasta with Peas

Honestly, this recipe hits all the right notes for busy cooks and flavor seekers alike. It’s been chef-tested in my kitchen and family-approved at every turn. Here’s why it stands out:

Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you probably already have everything in your pantry and fridge.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for cozy dinners, casual lunches, or even as a bright side dish for weekend gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the creamy, tangy flavor combo.
Unbelievably Delicious: The silky butter sauce with a zing of lemon and sweet peas is comfort food with a fresh edge.

What makes this quick creamy lemon butter pasta with peas different? It’s the perfectly balanced touch of lemon zest and juice combined with rich butter and cream that creates a sauce so smooth it practically melts in your mouth. Plus, the peas add just the right pop of sweetness and color. This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s the one that makes you close your eyes after the first bite, savoring every mouthful. It’s comfort food reimagined—faster, lighter but still soul-soothing. Whether you want to impress guests without stress or turn a simple meal into something memorable, this recipe’s got your back.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples or easy to find fresh, making this dish a breeze to whip up.

8 ounces (225 g) of pasta (I recommend penne or farfalle for best texture, but spaghetti works well too)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (adds richness and creaminess)
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (use dairy-free cream if needed)
1 cup (150 g) fresh or frozen peas (fresh is best in spring and summer; frozen works year-round)
1 lemon, zested and juiced (for bright, tangy flavor)
2 cloves garlic, minced (adds savory depth)
1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving; I prefer Parmigiano-Reggiano for flavor)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional fresh herbs: chopped parsley or basil for garnish (adds freshness and color)

Substitution tips: Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option. Swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version, but expect a slight coconut flavor. For a lighter twist, half the butter and cream and add a splash of pasta water to keep things silky.

Equipment Needed

Large pot: For boiling pasta—choose one that can hold plenty of water to prevent sticking.
Large skillet or sauté pan: To make the lemon butter sauce and cook the peas.
Colander: To drain pasta efficiently.
Microplane or fine grater: For zesting the lemon (a zesting tool makes this quick and tidy).
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise amounts, especially with butter and cream.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the sauce without scratching your pans.

If you don’t own a microplane, a small box grater works fine for zesting, just be careful to avoid the bitter white pith. Non-stick skillets make cleanup easier, but a well-seasoned stainless steel pan will give great caramelization for the garlic. For budget-friendly options, any basic kitchen set with these essentials will get the job done.

Preparation Method

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 g) of your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 9-11 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Tip: Reserve ½ cup (120 ml) of pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside.
While pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Watch closely to avoid bitterness.
Add 1 cup (150 g) of peas to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until peas are tender and bright green. If using frozen peas, just cook until heated through.
Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly for 2-3 minutes. Stir regularly to prevent scorching.
Add lemon zest and juice from 1 lemon to the sauce. Stir well to infuse the sauce with fresh brightness. Taste and adjust the amount of lemon juice depending on how tangy you like it.
Lower the heat and add drained pasta to the sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a silky texture.
Stir in 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to melt into the sauce, stirring until creamy and smooth.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, Parmesan adds saltiness, so taste before adding more salt.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Personal tip: I like to keep the lemon zest finely grated for even flavor distribution and not to overpower the dish. Also, don’t skip reserving pasta water—it’s pure magic for sauce consistency!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Getting the creamy lemon butter pasta with peas just right is easier than you think, but a few tricks help nail it every time. First off, timing is key—start your sauce when the pasta water boils so everything finishes together. This keeps the pasta warm and the sauce fresh.

When sautéing garlic, don’t rush it or crank the heat. Low and slow prevents burning and bitterness, which can ruin that silky sauce. You want the garlic aroma to gently infuse the butter without turning bitter.

Frozen peas are a great shortcut, but fresh peas really shine when in season. If you can find them, shelling fresh peas is worth the extra effort for sweetness and texture.

Cheese quality matters. Using a good Parmigiano-Reggiano rather than pre-grated generic Parmesan makes a noticeable difference in flavor and mouthfeel. Also, add cheese off the heat to keep the sauce smooth, avoiding graininess.

Don’t forget the reserved pasta water! It contains starch that helps the sauce cling to pasta better. Add it gradually until you reach that perfect creamy, not soupy, consistency.

Finally, taste as you go. Lemon juice can vary in sourness, so adjust to your liking. Some like it more punchy, others subtle and buttery.

Variations & Adaptations

This quick creamy lemon butter pasta with peas is a perfect base for customization. Here are a few ways I’ve tweaked it over time:

Protein Boost: Add cooked grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal. I once tossed in leftover rotisserie chicken, and it was a total game-changer.
Seasonal Veggies: Swap peas for asparagus tips, green beans, or spinach depending on what’s fresh. In summer, fresh cherry tomatoes add a sweet pop alongside the lemon.
Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan butter and coconut or oat cream instead of dairy cream and butter. Add nutritional yeast for that cheesy note.
Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta (brown rice or chickpea-based) with no compromise on taste or texture.
Herb Variations: Try adding fresh dill or tarragon for a different herbal twist that pairs beautifully with lemon.

One personal favorite variation is adding a handful of toasted pine nuts on top for crunch and nuttiness. Every time I make this, I like to surprise my family with a little twist—it keeps things interesting!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this quick creamy lemon butter pasta with peas piping hot for the creamiest texture and freshest flavor. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few lemon wedges on the side brighten the presentation and let everyone adjust tartness to taste.

Pair it with a crisp green salad or crusty garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lemon complements the dish wonderfully.

Leftovers keep well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools—reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave adding a splash of water or cream to loosen it back up.

Flavors meld even more after resting, so sometimes I make this ahead for dinner parties and warm it up just before serving. Just be sure not to overheat, or the sauce might separate.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This quick creamy lemon butter pasta with peas is a balanced dish providing energy and nutrients in every bite. One serving (about 1.5 cups or 300 g) contains approximately:

Calories	420 kcal
Protein	14 g
Fat	20 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fiber	4 g

The peas add fiber, vitamins A and C, plus antioxidants, while lemon provides a boost of vitamin C and brightens the immune system. Butter and cream provide satisfying fat that keeps you full, but for lighter options, you can cut back or swap for lower-fat dairy alternatives.

Be mindful if you have dairy allergies or lactose intolerance—this recipe can be adapted with dairy-free alternatives as noted earlier. The pasta base can also be gluten-free if needed. Overall, it’s a nourishing and comforting meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Conclusion

This quick creamy lemon butter pasta with peas is a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to time and again. It’s simple, fast, and packs a punch of fresh, buttery flavor that makes weeknight dinners feel special. Honestly, I love how you can tweak it easily to match your mood, pantry, or dietary needs, making it a versatile kitchen hero.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something cozy and bright, give this recipe a try. I’d love to hear how you make it your own—drop a comment or share your favorite variations! And if you found this recipe helpful, please share it with your friends so they can enjoy the magic of quick creamy lemon butter pasta with peas, too. Remember, good food is all about joy and sharing.

Happy cooking and savor every creamy, zesty bite!

FAQs About Quick Creamy Lemon Butter Pasta with Peas

Can I use frozen peas in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen peas work perfectly and save prep time. Just add them a little earlier to ensure they’re heated through.

What pasta type works best for this dish?

Penne, farfalle, or spaghetti are great choices. I prefer penne because it holds sauce well, but any pasta you enjoy will do.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Swap butter for vegan margarine and heavy cream for coconut or oat cream. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor if you like.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can make the sauce and pasta separately and combine before serving. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or water to keep it creamy.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild lemon flavor tend to be a hit with kids. You can reduce the lemon zest for a milder taste if preferred.

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