Description
Smoked Cream Cheese Pasta is a creamy, smoky, and totally irresistible twist on your favorite comfort food. This unique pasta dish features a block of smoked cream cheese melted into a velvety sauce, perfectly coating every bite of pasta. Infused with garlic, onion, and herbs, and customizable with proteins or veggies, it’s a gourmet-level meal made with simple ingredients. Perfect for casual dinners, gatherings, or when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
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12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, spaghetti, etc.)
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8 oz cream cheese (full-fat block)
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, diced
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/2–1 cup reserved pasta water or milk (as needed)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
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Optional Add-ins:
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1 cup cooked chicken or bacon
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1 cup cherry tomatoes or spinach
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Instructions
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Smoke the Cream Cheese:
Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C).
Score the top of the cream cheese, brush with olive oil, and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Place on foil and smoke for 2 hours until soft and aromatic. -
Cook the Pasta:
While the cheese is smoking, boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain. -
Sauté Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant. -
Make the Sauce:
Add the smoked cream cheese to the skillet. Stir with a spoon as it melts.
Gradually add pasta water or milk to create a smooth, creamy sauce. -
Combine:
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce. Mix well to coat.
Stir in Parmesan, herbs, and any desired add-ins.
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Serve:
Plate hot with extra herbs or cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Use hickory or mesquite wood chips for a stronger smoky flavor.
For extra creaminess, blend in shredded mozzarella or cheddar.
Store sauce and pasta separately if freezing.
To mimic smoked flavor without a smoker, roast the cream cheese and add a drop of liquid smoke.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Smoked, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Fusion
Keywords: smoked cream cheese, creamy pasta, smoker recipe, smoked cheese pasta, easy pasta dinner, smoker ideas, comfort food