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If you're craving that cheesy, garlicky Italian comfort but don't want to spend ages in the kitchen, this cozy Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is what you need. Toss together simple staples and get a steaming bowl on your table in under half an hour. Perfect for happy post-work dinners where everyone leaves the table full and grinning.
This quickly became my go-to save for last-minute pasta cravings, and now my family always asks for it at least once a week. Total hit.
Ingredients
- Fresh ground black pepper and salt: For max flavor, go with a grinder if you have it
- Chili flakes (optional): Like a little kick? Add freshly crushed chili at the end
- Butter: Starts the sauce off rich and creamy Make sure it's unsalted and super fresh
- Cream cheese: Adds even more creaminess Let it come to room temp so it's easier to mix in
- Spaghetti: Pick a good quality for best bite The noodles soak up all that sauce
- Fresh garlic: Gives the sauce a big flavor punch Use fresh, never dried
- Fresh chopped parsley: Sprinkle on at the very end for a burst of color and freshness
- Heavy cream: Makes everything rich Go for full-fat cream if you can
- Shredded parmesan (fresh): Can't skip this Fresh grated melts smooth and tastes way better
- Italian herbs: Hits it with Mediterranean aroma Go for blends with no salt added
Step-by-step guide
- Finish and plate:
- Twirl the pasta into bowls Top with parsley and, if you're like me, another handful of parmesan Best when you dig in right away
- Add pasta to sauce:
- Toss the spaghetti right into the pan Slowly drizzle in a bit of pasta water as you mix so the sauce gets silky Stir with tongs or forks, season with salt and black pepper
- Add cheese and spices:
- Now toss in grated parmesan, some Italian herbs, and chili flakes if you're feeling it Stir a few minutes until the sauce gets a bit thicker
- Make creamy sauce:
- Turn the heat down Pour in the cream, drop in the cream cheese, and stir gently as the cheese melts and you get a smooth sauce
- Start the flavor base:
- Melt butter in a big pan over medium Heat Let chopped garlic sizzle but don't let it brown—just until your kitchen smells amazing
- Cook the noodles:
- Boil a pot of salted water Drop in the spaghetti and cook as the package says—al dente is key Before draining, grab a cup of pasta water Save the drained noodles for later
Good things to know
This one's ultra cheesy, super creamy, and totally fit for a dinner party Pasta leftovers keep well in the fridge—you can warm 'em up next day and they're still comfort on a plate That nutty parmesan gives any sauce a lift Last time we made Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti for a family birthday and everyone wanted the how-to card to take home
Storing and leftovers
Got extra? Seal the spaghetti up tight and stash it in the fridge for up to two days When you reheat, splash in a bit of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life It's almost as tasty as day one
Mix it up
This is one of those meals you can totally riff on Need more veggies? Go for broccoli, zucchini, or spinach Meaty mood? Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms But honestly, use good cheese—makes all the difference
How to serve
This dish shines as a main for a cozy weeknight Sit down with a glass of white wine, or add a crisp green salad and fresh baguette You can even serve these noodles cold for a chill summer buffet
Story and background
Pasta loaded with garlic and cheese is a forever hit in Italian-inspired kitchens This creamy take is more American-style, just right for nights you want something fast Everybody in my crew has a soft spot for pasta drowning in parmesan
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → How can I make the sauce extra smooth?
The key is to let the cream cheese melt in gently without cranking up the heat. If your sauce’s too thick, a splash of pasta water loosens it up just right.
- → Is it cool to use other kinds of pasta?
Of course! Go for penne, linguine, or even tagliatelle—as long as you cook them with a little bite left.
- → What can I add to take this dish up a notch?
Mix in sautéed mushrooms, leftover chicken, or even shrimp. They add more heartiness and switch up the flavors.
- → What's the best way to keep leftovers?
Stick any extras in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be great for about two days. When reheating, drop in a splash of cream or milk to get that creaminess back.
- → How can I swap parmesan for a full vegetarian meal?
Switch to a veggie hard cheese since real parmesan usually has animal rennet.