There’s something magical about a plate of steaming, cheesy pasta that brings everyone to the table with eager anticipation. My Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is that perfect comfort food that manages to be both simple and utterly satisfying at the same time. The aroma of garlic and herbs simmering in butter will fill your kitchen with the promise of a meal that feels like a warm hug.
This recipe transforms everyday spaghetti into something special with a silky, garlicky sauce that clings to every strand, finished with a generous shower of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It’s my go-to dish when I need something delicious on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 45 minutes from pantry to plate
- Uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand
- The perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with punchy garlic flavor
- Versatile enough to serve as a main dish or elegant side
- Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add tomato sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese until melted. Gradually add Parmesan, stirring until smooth. Thin with pasta water if needed.
- Toss cooked spaghetti with sauce until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips & Variations
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon bits
- Make it vegetable-forward by stirring in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream
- Freshly grated Parmesan makes all the difference in this recipe – pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy
- If you don’t have Italian herbs, use a combination of dried oregano, basil, and thyme
- For a crunchier topping, mix the remaining Parmesan with breadcrumbs and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving
Serving Suggestions
This rich, cheesy spaghetti pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to cut through the creaminess. For a complete meal, serve alongside some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
If you’re hosting a dinner party, elevate this dish by serving it with a glass of dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the creamy, garlicky flavors beautifully.
Notes
- The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so serve immediately for best results
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- When reheating, add a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture
- This dish is at its peak freshness right after cooking, as the pasta can absorb the sauce and become less creamy over time
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, this creamy sauce pairs well with fettuccine, linguine, or even penne. Just adjust cooking times according to package directions.
Can I make this ahead of time?
I recommend making the sauce ahead of time and refrigerating it separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, adding a little milk if needed, and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, you can substitute plant-based butter, unsweetened almond or oat milk, and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
How do I know when the sauce is thick enough?
The perfect sauce should coat the back of a spoon and when you run your finger through it, the line should remain clear. If it’s too thin, simmer a bit longer; if too thick, add reserved pasta water.
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