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Lady Gaga Pasta

This bold and colorful pasta combines blistered cherry tomatoes, fiery garlic, and a creamy cheese sauce, resulting in a vibrant dish with a rich, velvety texture. The recipe involves sautéing, simmering, and tossing the pasta to create an unapologetically flavorful and slightly chaotic meal that’s as expressive as its inspiration.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 400 g pasta preferably spaghetti or linguine
  • 300 g cherry tomatoes whole or halved
  • 100 g cream cheese full-fat for best texture
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes adjust to taste
  • a handful fresh basil roughly chopped
  • 50 g Parmesan grated, for serving
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet or wide pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the pasta until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  3. Add the minced garlic and chili flakes to the hot oil, cooking for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
  4. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they blister, soften slightly, and burst with juices, filling the air with a smoky sweetness.
  5. Add the cream cheese to the skillet, stirring gently until it melts and creates a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the tomatoes and aromatics.
  6. Drop the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing gently to coat each strand with the rich, colorful sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
  7. Stir in the chopped fresh basil, allowing its aromatic oils to infuse the dish, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled generously with grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness and flavor.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while vibrant and warm.