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Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
Shortly after experimenting with this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti recipe, it quickly became a go-to favorite in my kitchen. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the creamy, cheesy goodness that hugs each strand of spaghetti. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or prepping for a cozy family dinner, this dish is the perfect blend of quick and indulgent. Plus, who can resist the aroma of garlic wafting through the house? It’s simply irresistible!
What Makes This Recipe Special
You might wonder, what’s so special about this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti that it deserves a place on your dinner table? Here’s the scoop: this recipe is incredibly easy to make, typically requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s budget-friendly, relying on pantry staples while still delivering a restaurant-quality experience right at home. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or even as a delightful dish for special occasions.
“I never realized how easy it could be to make something so decadent! The cheesy garlic sauce was a hit with my kids, and I loved how quickly it came together.” – Satisfied Home Cook
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into how to prepare this comforting dish. The process is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. You’ll start with cooking the spaghetti and then transition seamlessly into creating your rich, cheesy sauce—all in one skillet. Get ready for a deliciously satisfying meal!
Everything You Need for This Recipe
To whip up this enticing meal, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Notes: You can swap the Parmesan for a different hard cheese like Pecorino Romano if you prefer. For a lighter option, consider using whole wheat spaghetti or spiralized vegetables!
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- 🍪 Classic favorites – icebox cakes & cookie dough cups
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for perfect Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti:
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Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
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Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden brown—be careful not to let it burn!
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Add Cheese and Pasta Water: Lower the heat, add the grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese to the skillet, and stir until melted and creamy. Gradually mix in the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked spaghetti in the skillet, ensuring every strand is coated in that heavenly garlic cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Plate the pasta, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.
Perfect Pairings for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
Serving Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti can be just as delightful as preparing it. Consider pairing with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the dish. Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables can enhance the meal without much extra effort. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of white wine will take your dinner to new heights!
Keeping Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Fresh Longer
If you find yourself with leftovers—though it’s hard to believe you would—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Proper storage can keep it fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to loosen up the sauce for optimal creaminess. Always be sure to check the dish for any signs of spoilage if it’s been a few days!
Pro Chef Tips
Here are a few insider secrets to elevate your Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti:
- Cheese Quality Matters: Opt for freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded to ensure a creamier sauce without the added starch.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic: The golden, fragrant garlic is the star of this dish. Ensure you sauté it until just golden to unleash its rich flavors without any bitterness.
- Reserve More Pasta Water: The starch in pasta water is a magic ingredient! Having extra on hand can help you achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
Creative Twists
While the traditional recipe is fantastic on its own, feel free to get creative! Toss in some sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or mixing in some cooked chicken or shrimp. You can also try different herbs like basil or oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total time for cooking Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is about 30 minutes.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Incorporate your favorite veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
How do I store leftovers safely?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Making Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is not just about eating; it’s about enjoying the entire experience—from cooking to savoring each bite. With a few simple ingredients and quick steps, you can create a dish that will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
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Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cheesy spaghetti dish that’s quick to prepare and irresistibly good.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden brown.
- Lower the heat, add the grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese to the skillet, and stir until melted and creamy. Gradually mix in the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti in the skillet, ensuring every strand is coated in the garlic cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the pasta, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a lighter option, consider using whole wheat spaghetti or spiralized vegetables. You can also add sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: spaghetti, cheesy pasta, quick dinner, garlic, comfort food



