Irresistible Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe For Pasta Lovers

Pasta nights reach new heights with this creamy cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti that melts hearts faster than butter.

Rich, comforting flavors dance through every twirled forkful of noodles.

The combination of sharp parmesan and mellow garlic creates a symphony of taste that speaks directly to comfort food lovers.

Weeknight dinners transform with this simple yet luxurious dish that requires minimal effort.

Each strand of spaghetti becomes a canvas for bold, cheesy goodness that promises pure satisfaction.

You’ll find this recipe so irresistible, it might just become your new go-to meal for instant culinary happiness.

Prepare to fall in love with a pasta experience that elevates weeknight cooking from ordinary to extraordinary.

Highlights of Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

• Whip Up Quickly: This spaghetti recipe comes together in mere minutes, perfect for busy home cooks craving a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Comfort Food Champion: Packed with creamy cheese, garlic, and rich sauce, this dish delivers ultimate comfort and satisfaction in every single bite.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows simple modifications like adding protein, extra vegetables, or adjusting spice levels to suit personal preferences and dietary needs.
• Budget-Friendly Feast: Uses common pantry ingredients and affordable pasta, making it an economical meal that doesn't compromise on flavor or quality.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

• Spaghetti: A long, thin pasta that serves as the base for this creamy and cheesy dish.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides a rich, intense flavor to the sauce.
• Tomato Sauce: Adds depth and tanginess to the overall recipe.

• Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth and creamy texture in the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Delivers a sharp, salty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.

• Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper: Essential ingredients for building flavor and sauteing garlic.
• Oregano, Red Pepper Flakes: Provide additional herbal and spicy notes to the sauce.
• Fresh Basil: Offers a bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish.

Cooking Directions for Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Grab a large pot and fill it with water.

Add a generous pinch of salt to make the water taste like the sea.

Drop in the spaghetti and cook until it’s perfectly tender but still has a slight bite.

This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

Before draining, scoop out a cup of the starchy pasta water – this liquid gold will help create a silky sauce later.

Step 2: Create Aromatic Garlic Base

Grab a spacious skillet and pour in some olive oil.

Warm it up over medium heat until it shimmers.

Toss in finely chopped garlic and let it dance around for about a minute.

Watch carefully to prevent burning – you want golden and fragrant, not bitter and brown.

Step 3: Build Flavor Foundation

• Oregano
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt
• Black pepper

Let everything simmer and mingle for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to become best friends.

Step 4: Craft Luxurious Cheese Sauce

Lower the heat and introduce cream cheese.

Stir until it melts completely into a smooth blanket.

Gradually add Parmesan, stirring continuously.

If the sauce seems too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water to reach a dreamy, clingy consistency.

Step 5: Marry Pasta and Sauce

Tumble the cooked spaghetti into the skillet.

Gently toss until every strand is gloriously coated with the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 6: Serve with Flair

Scatter fresh basil leaves across the top.

Sprinkle extra Parmesan for good measure.

Serve immediately while it’s steaming hot and irresistibly inviting.

Tips for Silky, Cheesy Spaghetti Every Time

• Salt water generously and stir occasionally while boiling to keep spaghetti strands separated and prevent clumping.
• Saute garlic quickly on medium heat to release flavor without burning, which creates bitter taste.
• Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce thickness, adding gradually until desired creamy texture is achieved.
• Lower heat when adding cream cheese and Parmesan to ensure smooth incorporation without separating or becoming grainy.
• Finish dish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan for added aroma and visual appeal, enhancing overall flavor profile.

Flavorful Twists for Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

• Gluten-Free Zoodle Delight: Replace spaghetti with spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb, gluten-free version. Sauté zoodles lightly to maintain texture and mix with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
• Vegan Creamy Herb Pasta: Swap dairy ingredients with cashew cream, nutritional yeast, and plant-based Parmesan alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of pasta water for additional flavor depth.
• Protein-Packed Mediterranean Style: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to the pasta. Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach for extra nutrition and Mediterranean flair. Sprinkle with fresh oregano and crumbled feta cheese.
• Spicy Cajun Seafood Edition: Mix in blackened shrimp or crawfish.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

• Party Plate Perfection: Create a vibrant dinner spread with garlic bread and crisp green salad for a complete meal experience.
• Wine Pairing Magic: Complement the cheesy pasta with a light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance rich flavors.
• Fresh Herb Boost: Sprinkle extra chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for bright color and added aromatic freshness just before serving.
• Protein Power-Up: Add grilled chicken strips or sautéed shrimp on top to transform this side dish into a hearty main course that satisfies bigger appetites.

Storing Spaghetti for Later Enjoyment

• Store remaining Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and maintain flavor.
• Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or milk to restore creamy texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent sauce separation and pasta becoming dry.
• While possible, cream-based sauces can separate when frozen. If freezing, place in freezer-safe container for maximum 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat slowly.

FAQs

• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti is ideal, but you can also use linguine or fettuccine for similar creamy texture and sauce coverage.

• Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh garlic provides more robust flavor. If using pre-minced, use slightly less as it’s more concentrated.

• Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes are optional. Without them, the dish is mild and creamy with no significant heat.

• How can I make this dish more protein-rich?

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or cooked ground turkey directly into the sauce for extra protein and flavor.

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti invites pasta enthusiasts on a delightful culinary journey through Italian-inspired comfort. Subtle garlic notes and rich parmesan create a luxurious experience you’ll savor with every delectable twirl of noodles.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) spaghetti

Cheese:

• 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Sauce and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 ounces/400 grams) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish:

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

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Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Cook spaghetti until perfectly tender with a slight bite, approximately 8-10 minutes. Carefully extract 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining.
2. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium temperature. Introduce minced garlic, gently sautéing for one minute until aromatic, vigilantly preventing any burning.
3. Pour tomato sauce into the skillet, incorporating oregano and optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Allow mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, developing rich flavors.
4. Lower heat to minimum. Integrate cream cheese, stirring until completely dissolved. Gradually fold in Parmesan cheese, creating a silky, smooth consistency. Utilize reserved pasta water to adjust sauce thickness if necessary.
5. Transfer drained spaghetti directly into sauce, methodically coating each strand. Taste and refine seasoning as desired, ensuring harmonious flavor distribution.
6. Elegantly plate the pasta, adorning with freshly torn basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan. Serve piping hot for optimal taste and texture experience.

Notes

• Pasta Water Magic Save the starchy pasta water as a secret weapon to help sauce cling perfectly and create a silky, smooth texture.
• Garlic Caution Watch garlic closely while sautéing to prevent burning, which can make the sauce bitter and harsh.
• Cheese Melting Technique Add Parmesan and cream cheese gradually and off direct heat to ensure smooth, lump-free sauce without separation.
• Dietary Adaptations Swap regular pasta for gluten-free versions, use lactose-free cream cheese, or include plant-based Parmesan for alternative diet needs.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg