Rosemary Cream Fettuccine

Name: Rosemary Cream Fettuccine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Rosemary Cream Fettuccine, especially on cozy evenings when I want something comforting yet elegant. The creamy sauce infused with fresh rosemary beautifully coats the pasta, creating a dish that’s both fragrant and delightful. This recipe is quick to whip up, yet it feels indulgent enough for a special occasion. Using minimal ingredients, I can create an impressive meal that brightens my dinner table and warms my heart. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quiet meal, this dish is a standout every time.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:25:09.992Z

One evening, I decided to combine fresh rosemary from my garden with a rich cream sauce, and Rosemary Cream Fettuccine was born. The blend of floral and savory notes with the creamy texture was a match made in heaven. I quickly realized that using high-quality pasta makes a significant difference, so I always choose artisan-made options for the best results.

This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or some crusty bread. I've found that adding a splash of white wine to the sauce elevates the flavors even further. Trust me, it’s all about layering those tastes for a memorable meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The earthy aroma of fresh rosemary adds a unique twist to classic fettuccine.
Creamy sauce that elegantly clings to each strand of pasta.
Quick and easy to prepare while still feeling gourmet.

      

The Role of Fresh Rosemary

Fresh rosemary plays a pivotal role in elevating the flavor profile of this fettuccine dish. Its earthy notes infuse the creamy sauce with a fragrant warmth that complements the richness of the dish. Be sure to chop the rosemary finely to ensure its flavor integrates throughout the sauce, allowing each bite to showcase that aromatic quality. If you find fresh rosemary short on hand, you can substitute with a smaller amount of dried rosemary—just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a teaspoon instead of a tablespoon.

Additionally, rosemary can create a beautiful visual contrast. Just before serving, you can add a sprig of fresh rosemary on top for garnish, enhancing both the aesthetic and aromatic experience of the dish. This small touch not only adds a pop of color but also serves as a hint to diners about the delightful flavors awaiting them.

Dreamy Cream Sauce Techniques

Creating a cohesive and creamy sauce is essential to the success of this Rosemary Cream Fettuccine. When whisking in the heavy cream, keep the heat at medium to ensure that the sauce simmers gently without boiling, which can lead to a grainy texture. Stir often to maintain that silky consistency and prevent scorching at the bottom of the skillet. You’ll know it’s ready when it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, typically taking about 3-5 minutes.

Watch for the visual cues as you add in the grated Parmesan—ideal cheese is finely shredded for quick melting. It’s essential to add a couple of tablespoons at a time and continuously stir until fully melted before adding more. If the sauce feels too thick, adjusting with reserved pasta water is a great technique. This not only helps reach your desired consistency but also enhances flavor since pasta water carries starches that bind the elements beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Fettuccine

12 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the rosemary!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving some pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the heavy cream, letting it simmer gently.

Combine Ingredients

Add grated Parmesan and chopped rosemary to the sauce. Stir continuously until cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Divide the fettuccine among serving plates, garnishing with fresh rosemary sprigs. Enjoy your delicious Rosemary Cream Fettuccine!

For the best results, serve immediately while the pasta is hot and sauce is creamy.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat. Experiment with different herbs as well, such as thyme or basil.

Serving Suggestions

This Rosemary Cream Fettuccine shines as a standalone dish, but it can be enhanced with accompaniments. Try serving it alongside a fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Alternatively, a side of roasted vegetables can bring in color and additional flavors that contrast nicely with the creamy pasta. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, pairs exceptionally well, harmonizing with the rosemary and cream.

For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. Simply prepare these proteins separately and toss them with the fettuccine just before serving. This not only boosts the meal’s nutritional value but also adds variety and satisfies larger appetites.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to save time, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Store the cooled creamy rosemary sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently in a skillet before tossing it with freshly cooked fettuccine. This method preserves the flavors without compromising the texture, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.

If you have leftovers, keep them in the fridge where they will last for up to two days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore the creamy texture while warming gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid reheating at high temperatures to prevent the sauce from breaking, resulting in an undesirable separation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with any pasta of your choice like penne or spaghetti!

→ Is there a dairy-free option for the cream?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

→ Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it gently before adding the pasta to avoid it becoming too thick.

→ What can I serve with Rosemary Cream Fettuccine?

A side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish to elevate your meal!