Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is the kind of soul-soothing dish that brings comfort to your dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back gathering with friends, this pasta creation delivers loads of flavor with minimal fuss. Picture this: twirling strands of spaghetti coated in a rich, cheesy garlic sauce, bringing smiles to everyone around the table. What’s not to love?
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe stands out for so many reasons. First off, it’s quick and uncomplicated, making it the perfect choice for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, using ingredients you probably already have on hand. Family-approved? You bet! Children and grown-ups alike will be begging for seconds.
“This dish is like a warm hug after a long day! So easy to make, and everyone finishes their plates.” – Emma R.
Preparing Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
This delightful pasta dish combines simple ingredients for a mouthwatering meal that’s ready in a flash. Don’t worry, you won’t be overwhelmed; this recipe is practical and straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Ingredients
- 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)
Feel free to swap out the cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous—such as using pecorino Romano for a sharper taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking up this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is a breeze! Here’s how to do it:
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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.
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Prepare the garlic sauce: In a large skillet, heat the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden brown.
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Add cheese and pasta water: Lower the heat, then stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Blend until the cheeses melt smoothly. Gradually add the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked spaghetti in the skillet with the cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Plate your pasta, finishing with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a generous dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Now that you’ve got a luscious plate of Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti, how do you take it to the next level? Serve it alongside a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for added flavor and texture. You can also pair it with some garlic bread for ultimate indulgence!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti? No problem! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat. If you need to add a little moisture back in, a splash of milk or extra pasta water will do the trick.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Want to speed things up? Feel free to prep the garlic and cheese ahead of time so you’re set to go when it’s dinner time.
- For extra depth of flavor, try toasting the garlic just a smidge longer until it’s golden but not burnt.
- If you’re cooking for a crowd, this recipe is easily doubled—just make sure you have a big enough pot!
Recipe Variations
Change things up by adding some cooked chicken or shrimp for protein or toss in veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for some color and nutrients. You could even sprinkle in a bit of red pepper flakes for a kick!
Common Questions
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti takes about 20-30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I use gluten-free spaghetti?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta, and the dish will still be delicious.
What should I do with leftovers?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay good for about three days. Reheat gently to keep that delicious cheese sauce creamy!
Enjoy whipping up this comforting dish, y’all! It’s sure to become a family favorite that warms the heart and fills the belly. Happy cooking!