The aroma of cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti and cream cheese wafts through the air like a warm hug on a cold day. Picture it now – golden strands of spaghetti coated in a silky sauce that clings lovingly to each noodle while the scent of roasted garlic dances in your nostrils. It’s comfort food on a plate, ready to transport you straight to flavor town.
This dish is perfect for those late-night cravings or when you need to impress guests without sacrificing your sanity in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this for my friends; their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and I knew right then that I had struck culinary gold.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti is incredibly simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- Its rich flavors create an unforgettable taste experience that will keep everyone coming back for seconds
- The vibrant colors and creamy texture make it visually appealing and mouthwateringly irresistible
- Versatile enough to serve as a side or main course for any occasion!
One memorable evening, I whipped up this dish for my friends during our monthly game night. The laughter was loud, the jokes were silly, and the spaghetti? It disappeared faster than you can say “pass the cheese!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Use long strands of spaghetti for that classic Italian feel; fresh pasta elevates the dish even more.
- Cream Cheese: Choose full-fat cream cheese for a rich, velvety texture that enhances the sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds an aromatic punch; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own if possible; it melts better and adds depth of flavor compared to pre-grated options.
- Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control saltiness while providing a luxurious base for the sauce.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper brings warmth and complements the richness beautifully.
- Parsley (optional): Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil before adding the spaghetti. Cook until al dente according to package instructions; it should retain some bite.
Sauté Garlic: While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned – about one minute will do.
Create Creamy Sauce: Lower heat and stir in cream cheese until melted into a smooth mixture. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously for a rich sauce.
Combine Pasta with Sauce: Drain cooked spaghetti, reserving some pasta water. Add drained pasta directly into the sauce; toss well until each strand is coated.
Adjust Consistency: If needed, add reserved pasta water slowly until reaching desired creamy consistency. Season generously with black pepper; don’t be shy!
Add Final Touches: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top just before serving for an extra burst of flavor and color; serve immediately while hot!
This cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti with cream cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter, warmth, and maybe even some friendly competition over who gets seconds! Enjoy every mouthful of creamy goodness as you savor those delightful flavors dancing on your taste buds.
You Must Know
- This cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti and cream cheese dish is a creamy delight that your family will rave about
- Its aromatic blend of garlic and parmesan fills your kitchen with an irresistible scent, making it hard to wait for dinner
- Perfect for any occasion, it’s comfort food that warms the heart
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve cheesy perfection, start by boiling your spaghetti while sautéing garlic in butter. Add cream cheese once the pasta is al dente for a smooth sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional spaghetti for zucchini noodles or add vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers for a colorful twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slowly on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your garlic doesn’t burn; add it to the pan at medium heat before mixing with cream cheese
- Using freshly grated parmesan enhances flavor significantly compared to pre-grated options
- Stir vigorously while adding pasta to ensure each strand is coated in that creamy goodness
Sometimes I find myself making this cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti and cream cheese dish on rainy days, where every bite feels like a warm hug from my grandma.
FAQ
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, substitute cream cheese with cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
How can I spice up the recipe?
Add red pepper flakes or sautéed jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.
What type of pasta works best?
While spaghetti shines, fettuccine or penne can also work beautifully in this recipe.
Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti with cream cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti
- Cream cheese
- Fresh garlic
- Parmesan cheese
- Unsalted butter
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add grated Parmesan while stirring.
- Combine drained spaghetti with sauce in the pan, tossing to coat. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Season generously with black pepper and top with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
