Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that will steal your heart with its creamy texture and rich flavors. Picture perfectly cooked spaghetti coated in a luscious blend of melted cheeses and fragrant garlic, all coming together for a delightful dining experience. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a special date night, bringing warmth and happiness to any occasion.

As you dive into this dish, you will be greeted by the inviting aroma of garlic mingling with the earthy notes of Parmesan and mozzarella. Your taste buds will dance with joy as you savor each bite! In this article, we will guide you through crafting this incredible dish, from preparing the perfect garlic sauce to tips for serving and storing leftovers. Let’s get started on this cheesy adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh garlic and herbs makes this dish burst with flavor.
Ease of Preparation: Quick and simple, this recipe is perfect for cooks of any skill level.
Nutrition: With real ingredients, you can enjoy a meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Versatility: Customize with various add-ins like veggies, proteins, or spices to suit your taste.
Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley and extra cheese, it looks as appealing as it tastes.

This dish will surely become a favorite!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 25 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes

Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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)

How To Make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

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.
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.
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.
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.
Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve in a large bowl or individual plates for a beautiful display.
Accompaniments: Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Portions: This recipe serves two but can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
Beverage pairing: A chilled white wine or sparkling water complements the dish beautifully.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Additional Tips

To boost flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
Customize with spinach, mushrooms, or cooked chicken for added nutrition.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

Pesto Twist: Stir in a few tablespoons of pesto for a fresh herb flavor.
Creamy Alfredo: Mix in heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
Veggie Lover’s: Toss in sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to lighten up the dish.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For best results, freeze in portioned containers and consume within 1 month.

Special Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Strainer
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen garlic instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen garlic can be used, but fresh garlic offers a better flavor.

2. Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly, containing only cheese and pasta.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and just cook the pasta before serving.

4. How can I customize the flavors?
Feel free to add your favorite herbs or proteins like chicken, shrimp, or spinach.

5. Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work beautifully.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is a scrumptious and comforting dish that combines rich flavors with creamy textures. With fresh ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion, from a quick weekday meal to a festive family gathering. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with delightful variations!
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