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Indulge in the comforting embrace of Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti – a dish that transforms a humble pasta dinner into a culinary masterpiece. This recipe is a delightful blend of creamy, garlicky goodness that will leave your taste buds singing with joy. Picture strands of spaghetti coated in a velvety sauce made with cream cheese, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of tomato – a harmony of flavors that is nothing short of pure comfort in a bowl.
I stumbled upon this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti recipe on a rainy evening, and it quickly became a family favorite that has the power to turn unexpected dinner guests into delighted patrons. The magic lies in the way the sauce lovingly clings to each strand of pasta, creating a dish that invites seconds and prompts requests for the recipe. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a special gathering with loved ones, this pasta dish has a way of bringing people together around the table, savoring every bite and creating unforgettable moments.
Quick Benefits
- Creamy and comforting dish perfect for rainy evenings or cozy family dinners
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with additional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, grilled chicken, or cherry tomatoes
- Leftovers can be easily reheated with a splash of milk to maintain the velvety texture
- Simple ingredients combine to create a flavorful and satisfying meal that brings people together around the table
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti: Easy 30-Minute Recipe Recipe
- Velvety and creamy sauce that perfectly coats every strand of spaghetti
- Balanced flavors of garlic, cheese, and tomato create a comforting and satisfying meal
- A versatile dish that can be served on its own for a quick weeknight dinner or dressed up with a side salad and crusty bread for a more elaborate meal
- Crowd-pleasing recipe that will have your family and friends going back for seconds
- Easy to customize by adding sautéed mushrooms, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, or a splash of white wine for variety
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated with a splash of milk to retain the silky texture
- Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that brings people together and creates memorable dining experiences
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti: Easy 30-Minute Recipe
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Sauce Base
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cheese and Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti: Easy 30-Minute Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic Base
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
Step 3: Make Sauce
Combine tomato sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and pepper in a pot. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Lower heat to low and stir in cream cheese until melted. Gradually mix in Parmesan until smooth. Adjust consistency with pasta water if necessary.
Step 5: Combine
Mix cooked spaghetti with sauce until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve
Top with fresh basil and additional Parmesan. Serve hot right away.
Storage Tips
To store the finished cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator, and the leftovers will keep well for a few days. When reheating the pasta, consider adding a splash of milk to the dish as you warm it up to help restore that velvety texture to the sauce. It’s best to reheat the pasta gently to prevent it from drying out.
If you have any additional toppings or mix-ins, such as sautéed mushrooms, grilled chicken, or cherry tomatoes, store them separately to maintain their freshness. This dish is versatile and can be easily customized with different additions based on your preferences. Remember not to divulge to any traditional Italian chefs that you are reheating the pasta, as they may have strong opinions on the matter. Enjoy this comforting and crowd-pleasing cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti as a delicious leftover meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings for days to come.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re looking to make a lighter version of this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti, you can consider using whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti. It will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the dish. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the cream cheese with cashew cream or a plant-based cream cheese alternative. This swap will provide a creamy texture without the dairy component.
For those who prefer a spicier kick in their pasta, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. This will elevate the heat level and add an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Another option is to swap the fresh basil with fresh parsley or chives for a different herbaceous note. These small changes can customize the dish to your taste preferences while still keeping the essence of the comforting and velvety pasta.
Serving Suggestions
For a creative serving suggestion with this cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti, try plating it in individual baked parmesan cups. Simply grease a muffin tin, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese into each cup, press down gently, and bake until golden and crisp. Serve the spaghetti in these edible parmesan cups for a fun and elegant presentation that adds a crispy texture to each bite.
Another serving idea is to turn this dish into a pasta bake. Mix the cooked spaghetti with the cheesy garlic parmesan sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, top with more grated Parmesan cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. This transforms the dish into a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Serve the pasta bake with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
FAQs for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti: Easy 30-Minute Recipe
Can I omit the cream cheese from this recipe?
While the cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the sauce, you can omit it if you prefer. The sauce may be slightly less thick and velvety, but it will still be delicious with the garlic, Parmesan, and tomato flavors.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, cook the spaghetti and reheat the sauce on the stove, adding a splash of milk to regain the silky texture. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but reheating works well for leftovers.
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of pasta like fettuccine, penne, or linguine instead of spaghetti. Different pasta shapes will slightly alter the texture and look of the dish, but the flavors of the cheesy garlic Parmesan sauce will still shine through.
What can I substitute for fresh basil if I don’t have any?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil as a substitute. Remember to adjust the quantity, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh ones. Alternatively, you can use parsley or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
As you prepare to savor your own bowl of comforting Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti, remember that the magic of this dish lies in its ability to bring people together with its rich flavors and heartwarming aroma. Whether you’re cooking for your family, unexpected guests, or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So, gather your loved ones around the table, pour yourself a glass of wine, and indulge in the simple joy of good food and great company. Let the creamy sauce, the savory Parmesan, and the aromatic garlic transport you to a place of culinary bliss. Embrace the versatility of this dish and make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or pairing it with complementary sides. And most importantly, enjoy every bite of this delicious Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti – because good food is meant to be shared and celebrated.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti: Easy 30-Minute Recipe
“Velvety garlic parmesan spaghetti that’s pure comfort in a bowl, a simple yet sensational dish that will have everyone lingering at the table.”
Prep Time10 Minutes
Cook Time20 Minutes
Total Time30 Minutes
CuisineItalian
Skill LevelEasy
Servings4 Servings (4 servings)
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Sauce Base
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cheese and Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
-
Cook Pasta: Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
-
Prepare Garlic Base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
-
Make Sauce: Combine tomato sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and pepper in a pot. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
-
Add Cheese: Lower heat to low and stir in cream cheese until melted. Gradually mix in Parmesan until smooth. Adjust consistency with pasta water if necessary.
-
Combine: Mix cooked spaghetti with sauce until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.
-
Serve: Top with fresh basil and additional Parmesan. Serve hot right away.
