Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with Cream Cheese is the ultimate answer when creamy comfort food cravings hit. Velvety sauce coats every noodle and wraps them in a trio of cheese richness sharp Parmesan mellow cream cheese and buttery goodness powered by garlic. It is my go-to for quick weeknights or sharing at potlucks when I want something everyone will devour.

My household started calling this cozy spaghetti a hug in a bowl. The first time I made it for friends nobody spoke for the first five bites and now it is requested at every get-together.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti: Use classic durum wheat pasta for best bite and structure If possible choose bronze cut for better sauce cling
• Unsalted butter: Forms the flavor base It is worth picking a high-quality butter for extra richness
• Fresh garlic: Minced garlic truly amps up the flavor Consider using firm white bulbs for pungency
• Heavy cream: Adds lush smoothness Go for cream labeled heavy or whipping not half and half
• Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese blends into a silken sauce Full-fat works best for texture
• Parmesan cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan gives bold cheesy punch Always shred right before using for best melt
• Italian seasoning: Offers herbal depth Choose one that lists oregano and basil high in the ingredients
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For a subtle kick Use as much or as little as you like or skip altogether
• Salt and black pepper: To balance and brighten flavors Taste before seasoning to avoid overdoing it
• Fresh parsley: Chopped as garnish Brings freshness and color Flat-leaf Italian parsley is my top pick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil and cook pasta:

Fill a large pot with water generously salt it and bring to a rolling boil Add spaghetti and cook until al dente stirring occasionally to prevent sticking Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining to use later if needed

Sauté the garlic:

In a roomy skillet melt unsalted butter over medium heat Add finely minced garlic Stir constantly for about one to two minutes until garlic is softened and releasing fragrance You want it golden but not browned for the best flavor

Create the cream base:

Reduce heat to low Add heavy cream and softened cubed cream cheese to the skillet Whisk steadily as cream cheese melts aiming for a totally smooth and cohesive mixture with no lumps

Cheese and season the sauce:

Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using Keep stirring for two to three minutes The sauce will gently thicken and develop its flavor

Mix pasta with sauce:

Add drained spaghetti right into the skillet Toss with tongs or forks until every strand is covered in the cheesy sauce If it seems too thick add a splash of reserved pasta water bit by bit until you get your perfect consistency

Final seasoning and garnish:

Taste and add salt plus freshly cracked black pepper as you prefer Before serving shower the top with chopped fresh parsley and more Parmesan if you love extra cheese

Save

There is something magic about freshly grated Parmesan in this sauce The savory nuttiness adds depth you cannot get from pre-shredded packs and it reminds me of watching my grandmother finish dishes with a flourish snowstorm of cheese at Sunday dinner

Storage Tips

Store any leftover cheesy garlic spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk cream or reserved pasta water to revive its silkiness Avoid microwaving if you can which can make the sauce separate

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out spaghetti for another long pasta for example fettuccine or linguine For the cream cheese try mascarpone for extra luxury or even a dairy free cream cheese for a lighter twist Grana Padano or Pecorino can be subbed for Parmesan but use less salt as they are both saltier

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy pasta as a main dish paired with a crisp mixed green salad or as a side for roasted chicken or baked salmon Garlic bread is the perfect companion for soaking up any extra sauce I love offering extra red pepper flakes at the table so everyone can control their own heat

Cultural and Historical Context

While not classic Italian this dish is Italian inspired comfort food at its best blending classic pasta with American love of cream cheese The garlic and Parmesan base echoes rich Alfredo and Roman pastas but with a dreamy US twist thanks to Philly’s favorite spread

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of pasta for this dish?

Yes, while spaghetti is classic, you can substitute with linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta shape.

→ How do I keep the sauce from becoming too thick?

Gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! All listed ingredients are vegetarian. Just ensure your parmesan is suitable for vegetarians if necessary.

→ What proteins pair well with this pasta?

Try adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.

→ How can I enhance the flavor?

Use freshly grated parmesan, and finish with extra cracked pepper and fresh chopped parsley before serving.