Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta is the perfect combination of comfort and freshness. Tender pasta is tossed with roasted asparagus, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, lemon-infused cream sauce that’s both bright and indulgent. It’s the kind of dish that feels elegant enough for a dinner party but is simple enough to enjoy on a weeknight.

With every bite, you’ll get a taste of vibrant lemon zest, creamy Parmesan, and perfectly cooked veggies that make this pasta as flavorful as it is satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers a delicious balance of texture and flavor.

Before you get started

Here’s a quick checklist to help you prep everything for this fresh and creamy pasta dish:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F
• Wash and trim your asparagus
• Chop mushrooms and mince the garlic
• Zest your lemon and grate fresh Parmesan
• Bring water to a boil for pasta
• Set out a baking sheet, mixing bowl, and glass dipping bowls for prepping
• Have a medium saucepan and a wooden spatula ready for the cream sauce
• Use a wooden chopping board and 8-inch chef’s knife or 6.5-inch Nakiri knife for precise chopping
• Prepare a large serving bowl or ceramic dipping bowls for plating
• Have mason jars or storage containers ready if you're saving leftovers

Once your ingredients and tools are ready, you're good to go.

What You Need To Make Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

All the ingredient amounts and nutritional information can be found in the recipe card below. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Unsalted butter
• Heavy cream
• Pasta (your choice of shape)
• Asparagus
• Shiitake mushrooms
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Lemon zest
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper

These ingredients come together to create a creamy, citrusy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta and veggies.

How To Make Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with the asparagus spears and drizzle them with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then roast for 10 to 15 minutes until tender and lightly browned.

Step 2

Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly browned, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 4

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 4 to 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan, lemon zest, chopped mushrooms, and the roasted asparagus.

Step 5

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss everything together until well coated and combined.

Step 6

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of parsley if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape works well. Penne, fettuccine, or farfalle are great options.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

It already is! Just make sure your Parmesan is a vegetarian-friendly version if needed.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.

Can I add a protein?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu pair wonderfully with this pasta.

How should I store leftovers?

Store in a mason jar or airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.