If you’re craving a creamy pasta dinner that tastes like your favorite bagel shop treat, look no further than the Everything Bagel Pasta!
It’s incredibly easy to prepare in about 35 minutes, so it fits perfectly into busy weeknights alongside other one pot pasta favorites.
Did you know everything bagel seasoning, a blend of sesame, poppy seeds, garlic, and onion, has become a pantry staple far beyond the bagel counter? With just a handful of ingredients, you can bring that bold flavor to a silky sauce that pairs wonderfully with creamy Parmesan pasta lovers everywhere.
Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation, and some tips to make this dish truly shine!
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Ingredients for Everything Bagel Pasta
To create the perfect Everything Bagel Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients
- 16 ounces linguini pasta cooked until al dente, with the pasta water reserved
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water from cooking the linguini
- 2 cups whole milk for a rich, smooth sauce
- 1 cup yellow onion (about 1 small onion), diced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter for sautéing the onion and building the sauce
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour to lightly thicken the milk
- 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning mixed into the sauce
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt adjusted to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground for best flavor
- 8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature, cubed
- 1/2 cup pecorino-romano cheese finely grated
Optional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for a bright finish
- 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning reserved for sprinkling on top
How to Make Everything Bagel Pasta
Here’s how to bring this creamy dish together:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguini according to package directions, usually 9-11 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Sauté the Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the diced onion and cook 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Add the Milk: Slowly whisk in the milk, raise the heat to medium, and simmer 3-4 minutes until the sauce lightly thickens.
- Melt in the Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, whisk in the cubed cream cheese for 2-3 minutes until smooth, then stir in the pecorino-romano, 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Assembly: Bringing It All Together
Once your sauce is silky and seasoned, it’s time to assemble your pasta!
- Combine: Add the drained linguini and 1/2 cup reserved pasta water to the skillet, then toss for 1-2 minutes until every strand is coated.
- Garnish: Top with the remaining 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, then serve immediately while warm.
Variations and Customizations
One of the great things about Everything Bagel Pasta is its versatility!
- Protein Boost: Stir in 8 ounces of cooked, crumbled Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken during the final toss.
- Vegetable Additions: Fold in a few handfuls of baby spinach or halved cherry tomatoes in the last minute of tossing so they wilt without turning mushy.
- Extra Crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried onions over the top just before serving.
- Lighter Sauce: Swap the whole milk for 2% milk and use reduced-fat cream cheese for a slightly lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta alongside sauteed mushrooms with spinach for a green, earthy side that balances the rich sauce.
For drinks, a chilled sparkling water with lemon or a crisp glass of sauvignon blanc complements the savory, garlicky flavors beautifully.
Conclusion
In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a creamy, savory Everything Bagel Pasta that is sure to become a family favorite.
It’s a fantastic answer for busy weeknight dinners or a cozy meal for guests who love bold, comforting flavors.
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and add-ons, because there’s no limit to how you can customize this recipe!
Try it today and experience the deliciousness for yourself!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well because their shapes hold the creamy sauce nicely.
What should I serve with Everything Bagel Pasta?
A fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread complements the rich, creamy sauce perfectly.
How can I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, then reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
