Ingredients:

  • 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp (14g) unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves (9g) garlic, minced
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk
  • ½ cup (120ml) reserved pasta water
  • ¼ tsp (1.5g) fine sea salt
  • ¼ tsp (1g) cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp (3g) fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp (5ml) lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Place the skillet over medium low heat. Melt the butter until it foams, then add the minced garlic.
  2. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is translucent and fragrant, but not browned.
  3. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Use the whisk to break it down, stirring constantly until it blends with the butter.
  4. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking vigorously until the mixture is smooth and the cheese has fully melted into a thick, pale cream.
  5. Gradually whisk in the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches a velvety, pourable consistency.
  6. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
  7. Remove from heat immediately once the sauce is glossy and smooth.
  8. Toss in your cooked pasta and chopped parsley. Stir for 30 seconds to coat every noodle.