Decadent Hazelnut Cream Pasta Ready in Just 20 Minutes
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Valdemar
There s something wonderfully satisfying about a dish that merges simplicity with gourmet elegance. Picture this: the rich, nutty aroma of ground hazelnuts mingling with fragrant sage, wafting through your kitchen as you prepare a meal that will leave your family and friends in awe. This Hazelnut Cream Pasta is not just a quick weeknight dinner; it’s an invitation to indulge in a luxurious experience, crafted in just 20 minutes.
I discovered this recipe on one of those evenings when the mundane ritual of dinner prep needed a shake-up. Instead of reaching for takeout menus or the usual spaghetti, I turned to my pantry and found a jar of hazelnuts. The result? A creamy, velvety sauce that transforms any ordinary pasta into a memorable culinary delight. Whether you re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, this dish will bring a unique twist to your table while still being easy and fun to make. Let s dive into the recipe!
Why is Hazelnut Cream Pasta a Must-Try?
Indulge in this decadent dish that celebrates unique flavors and textures, guaranteed to impress your guests!
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes perfect for busy nights!
- Gourmet Experience: Elevate your dinner with a restaurant-quality sauce made from ground hazelnuts and fresh sage.
- Versatile Ingredient: Perfect with any pasta type; feel free to switch it up based on your preference!
- Healthy Twist: Packed with the goodness of hazelnuts and Parmesan cheese; a delicious way to enjoy healthy fats.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe combines beloved elements that appeal to everyone at the table comfort food with a twist!
Elevate your weeknight dinners and discover a new favorite with this Hazelnut Cream Pasta!
Hazelnut Cream Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
Pasta Your choice of pasta will serve as the comforting foundation; any type works, even gluten-free!
For the Sauce
Butter Adds rich, nutty depth to the sauce; swap for olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Sage Leaves Fresh sage brings aromatic flavor; dried sage can substitute but will be less potent.
Ground Hazelnuts Infuses the sauce with distinct nutty flavor; feel free to use ground almonds if needed.
Heavy Cream Creates that luxurious, creamy texture; half-and-half can make it lighter if preferred.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Adds savory cheesy goodness; opt for nutritional yeast as a vegan alternative.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper Essential to enhance all flavors; season to taste for your perfect balance.
Embrace the delightful combination of flavors in this Hazelnut Cream Pasta recipe it s sure to be a hit!
How to Make Hazelnut Cream Pasta
Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Don t forget to reserve ¾ cup of pasta water before draining.
Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, add butter. Melt it until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
Saut Sage: Add fresh sage leaves to the pan and saut for about 1 minute, allowing their fragrant essence to infuse into the butter.
Toast Hazelnuts: Stir in the ground hazelnuts, cooking for 1-2 minutes until they are toasted and aromatic, adding a delicious depth to the sauce.
Add Cream: Pour in the reserved pasta water, followed by the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken beautifully.
Incorporate Cheese: Mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy hazelnut sauce until every strand is well-coated. Serve immediately for best results!
Optional: Top with toasted hazelnuts for a delightful crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Hazelnut Cream Pasta Variations
Explore the delightful possibilities of customizing this dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs.
- Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a luscious dairy-free sauce that still maintains a creamy texture.
- Nut-Free: Swap ground hazelnuts with sunflower seeds to keep the nutty essence while making it a safe option for nut allergies.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with different fresh herbs such as basil or thyme instead of sage for a refreshing flavor twist.
- Veggie-Loaded: Stir in saut ed spinach or kale for an added layer of nutrition and a pop of color to your pasta.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful heat that warms up the flavors beautifully.
- Protein-Packed: Toss in some cooked sausage or saut ed mushrooms for an earthy, protein-rich option that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
- Citrus Zest: Enhance flavor with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of zest it brightens up the dish, adding a refreshing note.
- Pasta Shape: Switch it up by using whole-wheat or chickpea pasta for a nutritious twist on this creamy classic that adds extra fiber.
Expert Tips for Hazelnut Cream Pasta
- Perfect Pasta Texture: Aim for al dente pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy; this will hold up beautifully in the creamy sauce.
- Watch the Butter: Keep an eye on the butter while melting; a golden brown hue adds flavor, but don t let it burn!
- Fresh Sage is Key: Fresh sage elevates the dish opt for it whenever possible for a vibrant, aromatic flavor.
- Hazelnut Quality Matters: Choose high-quality ground hazelnuts for the best taste; fresh nuts will enhance your Hazelnut Cream Pasta.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
Make Ahead Options
These Hazelnut Cream Pasta preparations are excellent for busy weeknights! You can cook the pasta and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, prepare the hazelnut cream sauce ahead of time, allowing it to cool completely before refrigerating (this prevents separation). When you re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to restore its creamy consistency. Toss the pre-cooked pasta with the reheated sauce, and you ll have a delightful meal that s just as rich and delicious as when freshly made, saving you precious time without sacrificing flavor!
What to Serve with Hazelnut Cream Pasta?
Creating a full meal around your creamy pasta can elevate your dining experience.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: Golden and crunchy, this bread is perfect for sopping up every bit of the luxurious sauce.
- Fresh Arugula Salad: Light and peppery, arugula adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta, brightening the meal beautifully. Consider tossing with a simple lemon vinaigrette for extra zing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies bring vibrant colors and earthy flavors, enhancing the wholesome nature of the dish. They add a delightful contrast to the creamy richness without overwhelming the palate.
- Toasted Hazelnuts: Sprinkling toasted hazelnuts on top not only adds a pleasing crunch but also intensifies the nutty flavor of the pasta.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio will harmonize beautifully, cutting through the richness and refreshing your palate.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light yet rich chocolate mousse complements the hazelnut flavors while providing a decadent finish to your meal. The creamy texture ties beautifully into the theme of indulgence.
How to Store and Freeze Hazelnut Cream Pasta
Fridge: Store leftover Hazelnut Cream Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing.
Freezer: To freeze, transfer the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or cream to revive the sauce’s texture and moisture.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Hazelnut Cream Pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Hazelnut Cream Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta works best for Hazelnut Cream Pasta?
Absolutely any type of pasta can be used! Whether you prefer spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options, each brings a delightful texture that complements the creamy hazelnut sauce beautifully.
How should I store leftover Hazelnut Cream Pasta?
Store your leftover Hazelnut Cream Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Be sure it cools to room temperature before sealing it to maintain the best texture.
Can I freeze Hazelnut Cream Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze this pasta dish! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove. Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help restore its creamy consistency.
What if my sauce is too thick when reheating?
No worries! If you find the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a little of the reserved pasta water or a splash of cream while gently reheating over low heat. This will help loosen the sauce and bring back that luscious creaminess.
Is this recipe suitable for nut allergies or dietary restrictions?
If you have nut allergies, it’s best to avoid this Hazelnut Cream Pasta altogether due to the ground hazelnuts. However, you can substitute the hazelnuts with ground sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Be sure to also check that the other ingredients, like the cream and cheese, align with any dietary needs!
How do I enhance the flavors in my Hazelnut Cream Pasta?
For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a touch of red pepper flakes before serving. You can also toss in saut ed veggies like spinach or roasted red peppers to add nutrition and a pop of color!