why make this recipe
Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is a comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of cheese and garlic. It is quick to make and perfect for a weekday dinner or a cozy night in. This recipe is simple enough for beginners, yet delicious enough to impress your friends and family. Plus, the cheesy, creamy sauce coats the spaghetti beautifully, making every bite irresistible.
how to make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
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)
Directions:
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Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the 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 unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add cheese and pasta water: Lower the heat, then add the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheeses melt and combine into a creamy sauce. Add the reserved pasta water gradually, stirring to adjust the sauce’s consistency to your liking.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the cheesy garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
how to serve Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
Serve Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti warm, right after cooking. You can pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an added touch, sprinkle more grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh parsley.
how to store Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
Store any leftover Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to help regain its creamy texture.
tips to make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing; it can burn quickly.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add more reserved pasta water to reach your preferred consistency.
- Feel free to add cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
variation
You can add different types of cheese like cheddar or add spices like red pepper flakes for some heat. For a healthier twist, try using whole grain or gluten-free spaghetti.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-packaged shredded cheese?
Yes, you can use pre-packaged shredded cheese, but fresh cheese will give you the best flavor and texture.
2. Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the cheese with plant-based cheese and use olive oil instead of butter.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can cook the spaghetti and prepare the sauce, then combine them when ready to serve. For the best taste, it’s recommended to eat it fresh.
Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting dish featuring spaghetti tossed in a creamy garlic and cheese sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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 unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden brown.
- Lower the heat, then add the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheeses melt and combine into a creamy sauce. Gradually add the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the cheesy garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Be careful not to burn the garlic while sautéing. If the sauce gets too thick, add more reserved pasta water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
