1-Getting started with this lemon cream sauce pasta is straightforward and fun. Begin by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking 8 ounces of pasta al dente according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 10 minutes. While the pasta cooks, you can prepare the sauce to save time and keep everything fresh.

2-About 10 minutes before the pasta is done, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon of flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently to create a smooth base. This step helps thicken the sauce without any lumps, making it creamy and rich.

3-Next, stir in 1 small minced garlic clove, 1/4 cup of chicken broth (or vegetable broth or dry white wine), and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice along with the zest of 1/2 lemon. Let the mixture bubble for about 1 minute to blend the flavors. Then, whisk in 1 cup of heavy or whipping cream and cook until the sauce thickens to your liking, which might take a few more minutes.

4-Stir in 1/3 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, then remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain the pasta and toss it with the sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese if you like, and serve right away for the best taste. According to experts, like those at a popular recipe site, this method ensures a silky sauce every time.