Print

Creamy Chestnut Pasta Delight Recipe

Creamy Chestnut Pasta Delight Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 28 reviews

A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring tender chestnuts cooked in a luscious cream sauce with garlic, onions, thyme, and Parmesan cheese, served over fettuccine or pappardelle. This comforting and elegant meal combines earthy flavors and smooth textures for a delightful dinner option.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 340g fettuccine or pappardelle pasta

Chestnut Cream Sauce

  • 1 cup cooked chestnuts, peeled and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 240ml heavy cream or plant-based cream alternative
  • 120ml chicken or vegetable broth
  • 33g grated Parmesan cheese or non-dairy cheese
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnishes (Optional)

  • Fresh parsley or sage leaves
  • Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 240ml of pasta cooking water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  3. Incorporate chestnuts: Add the chopped chestnuts to the skillet. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the chestnuts are warmed and lightly golden.
  4. Build the cream sauce: Slowly add the heavy cream and broth, stirring continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer and allow the sauce to thicken for 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Finish with cheese and seasonings: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg if using, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
  6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chestnut sauce. Toss gently until coated. Gradually add some reserved pasta water to reach desired sauce thickness if necessary.
  7. Heat through: Let the pasta and sauce simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes until evenly heated and flavors meld.
  8. Garnish and serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley or sage leaves, and finish with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
  • If using plant-based cheese, choose a variety that melts well for the best texture.
  • To add more protein, consider tossing in some cooked chicken or crispy tofu.
  • Reserve pasta water is essential to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or sage elevate the dish with a fresh aroma and taste.
  • Nutmeg is optional but adds a warm, subtle spice enhancing the creaminess.
  • For a nuttier crunch, toasted pine nuts or walnuts are excellent toppings.
  • Ensure not to overcook the pasta to maintain an al dente texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: chestnut pasta, creamy pasta, vegetarian pasta, Italian pasta recipe, chestnut cream sauce, fettuccine recipe

Find it online: https://platedbyemma.com/creamy-chestnut-pasta-delight-recipe/