Cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti, oh, where do I even begin? This isn’t just dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate after a long day. Think of the moment when you really need something comforting, something familiar, but with that little “oomph” that makes it special. That’s exactly what this cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti brings to the table. It’s simple, it’s quick, and it’s utterly delicious.
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I first made this cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti when I was feeling particularly uninspired in the kitchen. Nothing sounded appealing, and the thought of a complicated recipe was enough to make me order takeout. But then I remembered the basics: pasta, garlic, cheese. A few twists later, and this soon became a favorite. So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, get ready to fall in love with this easy and flavorful dish!
Why You Will Love This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
This cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti is all about comfort, speed, and incredible flavor. It’s the kind of meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The intense garlic flavor, combined with the salty parmesan and creamy cheese, creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more.
What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. It’s the perfect base for almost anything, like my Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles 2 or Garlic Butter Chicken for a flavourful twist. It’s just good, honest food that brings joy to every bite. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Ingredients Needed for This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1/2 cup butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
- 1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- 2. While the spaghetti is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- 3. Reduce the heat to low. Add the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- 4. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss to coat. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. This pasta water helps the sauce adhere to the spaghetti!
- 5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the chopped parsley.
- 6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley.
How to Serve This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
Serve this cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti hot and fresh for the best flavor. I like to serve it as a main course with a simple side salad of mixed greens or steamed vegetables.
For a more substantial meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or meatballs. The possibilities are endless!
I also really like to sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for a little heat, but that’s totally optional. And don’t forget extra Parmesan cheese, always.
Follow us on Pinterest for more recipe inspiration!How to Store This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
If you have any leftovers for this cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti (which is rare in my home!), they’re easy to store:
- Refrigeration: Store the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the pasta and sauce may change slightly. If freezing, allow the spaghetti to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the spaghetti before microwaving or heating on the stovetop. This will help to restore the creamy texture.
Tips to Make This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
Here are a few tips to ensure your cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti turns out perfectly every time:
- Ingredient Swaps: You can substitute the heavy cream with half and half or milk, but it will result in a less creamy sauce.
- Success Tip: Don’t overcook the garlic! Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter.
- Common Mistake to Avoid: Not reserving enough pasta water! The starchy water is essential for creating the perfect sauce consistency.
- Pro Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
Helpful Notes for This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
A couple of extra notes for this cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti:
- Garlic: I recommend using fresh garlic for the best flavor, but you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if needed. It won’t be quite the same, but it will still be tasty.
- Pasta: While I prefer spaghetti, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne.
Variation of This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
Want to mix things up a bit? Here are some variations:
- Seasonal Twists: Add roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini in the spring, or butternut squash in the fall.
- Optional Versions: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a warming flavor.
- Creative Modifications: For a spicy kick, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a few chopped chili peppers. You may even try using Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles as a base for this cheesy dish.
How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together?
To prevent spaghetti from sticking, use plenty of salted water when cooking. After draining, toss the spaghetti with a little olive oil or sauce immediately.
Can I use pre-shredded parmesan cheese?
While you can use pre-shredded parmesan, freshly grated parmesan cheese melts more smoothly and provides a richer flavor for your cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti.
What can I add to cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti to make it more flavorful?
For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, fresh herbs like parsley or basil, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish.
How do I store leftover cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti?
Store leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a little extra sauce or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
Conclusion
And there you have it – a quick, easy, and incredibly comforting cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti recipe perfect for any night of the week. This dish is all about simplicity and flavor, and I hope you enjoy every bite. Don’t be afraid to get creative with variations and make it your own. Let me know in the comments below how your cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti turned out!
