There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti. Imagine twirling that al dente spaghetti around your fork, the fragrant burst of garlic mingling with the melting cheese, all enveloped in a luscious sauce that feels like a warm hug after a long day. This dish is a personal favorite of mine, perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short but the craving for something indulgent looms large. It’s the kind of recipe that reminds you that simple ingredients can transform into something spectacular with just a little bit of love and attention.
Why you’ll love this dish
There’s a reason why cheesy garlic spaghetti has become a beloved staple in many households. Beyond its rich and hearty flavor, this recipe is wonderfully quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. It whispers comfort, holds a delightful cheesy allure, and—let’s be honest—who can resist that combination of garlicky goodness?
It’s budget-friendly, too. Most of the ingredients can usually be found in your pantry or local grocery store, without the need for hunting down exotic items. Plus, this dish is kid-approved; the gooey cheese and aromatic garlic will have everyone at the table clamoring for seconds.
"This has become our go-to weeknight meal. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious! My kids ask for it all the time." — Happy Home Cook
Preparing Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
Creating this masterpiece is straightforward, even if you’re not a seasoned chef. Start by cooking your spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente, ensuring that every strand holds its shape yet remains tender. While the pasta cooks, you’ll prepare a fragrant garlic sauce, bubbling away in a skillet. You’ll blend in the cheeses, allowing them to melt into a creamy concoction that clings beautifully to every spaghetti strand.
By combining the cooked pasta with the rich sauce, you create a dish that feels decadent without breaking the bank. Here’s how it all unfolds:
What you’ll need
Gather these items for your delicious adventure:
- 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)
Feel free to swap in whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option, or perhaps a gluten-free variant to suit dietary needs!
Directions to follow
Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain it, but be sure to reserve about ½ cup of that starchy pasta water.
Prepare the garlic sauce: In a large skillet, combine the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add in the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant and golden. Keep a close eye on it; burnt garlic is a heartbreaker!
Add cheese and pasta water: Lower the heat and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. Stir gently until the cheeses melt into a delightful creamy sauce. Gradually incorporate the reserved pasta water, mixing it in a bit at a time until you achieve your desired consistency.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti right into the skillet, tossing it thoroughly to ensure each strand is beautifully coated in that cheesy garlic sauce. Chick, chick, chick! Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Serve: Plate your wonderfully cheesy creation and finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and some extra Parmesan cheese for a little extra flair.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti, think easy elegance. Simply drape it onto a cozy bowl and top it with chopped parsley—it adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad for balance, or some garlic bread—because why not indulge further in that garlic joy?
You can also tuck in some grilled chicken or sautéed veggies for added nutrition and heartiness.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing your cheesy creation is easy. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop with a dash of olive oil or a splash of water, stirring gently until warmed through. If you like your pasta extra saucy, feel free to add a little more cheese or pasta water to liven it all up.
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate your Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti, consider these pro tips:
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, and don’t skimp on it! More garlic means more aroma and zest.
- Pasta Water Magic: That reserved pasta water is liquid gold! It contains starch that helps the sauce cling to your spaghetti beautifully.
- Resting Time: If you have a few minutes, let the assembled spaghetti sit off the heat for a minute before serving. It helps the sauce and pasta marry, making every bite more flavorful.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? There are delightful variations to try with this recipe. Swap mozzarella for gouda for a smokier flavor or add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for some pop. You could even sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a gentle heat or swap the cheese varieties entirely for a different profile.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make this dish?
You can whip up this cheesy goodness in about 20-25 minutes—perfect for a quick dinner!
Can I make it ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed freshly made, you can prep everything and store it separately, combining it right before serving.
What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) are great substitutes if you’re out of Parm.
There you have it—your guide to creating a comforting plate of Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti. It’s a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and warmth that’s sure to become a cherished dish in your recipe rotation!
Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve about ½ cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, combine unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden.
- Lower the heat, and sprinkle in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Stir gently until the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce. Gradually incorporate reserved pasta water until you achieve desired consistency.
- Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, tossing until each strand is coated in the cheesy garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the spaghetti and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.