If you have a craving for something indulgently comforting yet surprisingly simple, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. It brings together tender strands of perfectly cooked spaghetti enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce made from cream cheese, freshly grated parmesan, and fragrant garlic. The richness of the creamy sauce paired with the sharp, nutty notes of parmesan and the subtle warmth of garlic creates a dish that feels like love at first bite. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight supper or impressing guests with a homey touch, this recipe is your go-to for a rich and satisfying pasta experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to build layers of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky perfection. These essentials not only dictate the flavor but also ensure the sauce has that dream-like silky texture and appealing visual contrast with fresh parsley.
- 12 oz spaghetti: Your pasta canvas, perfectly al dente to hold onto the creamy sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the garlic evenly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic heart of the dish, delivering bold flavor.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Provides the rich, creamy base for the sauce.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty punch that defines the sauce’s character.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Boosts creaminess and gives the sauce its luscious body.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps adjust the sauce to your perfect consistency.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Brings a silky finish and smooths out the sauce perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten every bite.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a pop of fresh green and subtle herbal notes.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your spaghetti in salted water according to the package instructions until it reaches that ideal al dente texture. The salt in the water seasons the pasta right through, making every strand flavorful. Before draining, scoop out a cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside—this liquid gold will be your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta cooks, pour olive oil into a large skillet and warm it over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and golden but not browned, ensuring that vibrant garlic aroma bursts through the final dish without any bitterness.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce Base
Lower the heat to gentle warmth and add softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and milk directly into the skillet with the garlic. Stir continuously as the cream cheese melts smoothly into the liquids, forming a luscious, thick sauce that promises comfort in every spoonful.
Step 4: Incorporate Parmesan Cheese
Gradually whisk in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt seamlessly into the creamy base. This step is where the sauce truly shines, balancing creaminess with sharp, nutty parmesan flavor. If at any point your sauce feels too thick, don’t hesitate to stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve that perfect, silky consistency.
Step 5: Final Touches
Add the unsalted butter and stir until it melts completely, rounding out the sauce with a glossy, rich finish. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors pop in perfect harmony.
Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Transfer the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce-filled skillet. Using tongs, gently toss the pasta until every strand is generously coated in that irresistible creamy garlic parmesan goodness. This step infuses the spaghetti with flavor and makes every bite wonderfully satisfying.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Dish out the creamy, garlicky spaghetti right away for the best texture and taste. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top—it adds beautiful color and a hint of fresh herbal brightness to your plate.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe even further, fresh garnishes are your friends. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only brightens the color but also cuts through the richness with a subtle earthiness. For a little heat, a pinch of red chili flakes can add a gentle kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides. Consider a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess or some roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor variety. Garlic bread on the side is also a classic companion, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or simply enjoy this dish with a playful twist, serve the spaghetti in individual deep bowls with a generous parmesan shaving on top. You can also swirl the pasta into neat nests on plates for a restaurant-style presentation. For gatherings, consider plating it family-style in a large serving dish garnished with edible flowers or extra herbs for an inviting look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its creamy texture, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating.
Freezing
This recipe isn’t the best candidate for freezing due to its dairy-based sauce, which can separate and become grainy once thawed. If you do freeze, do so for no longer than one month and expect some texture changes.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to bring the sauce back to its smooth, luscious state. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can cause the sauce to split.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, feel free to swap in fettuccine, linguine, or even penne. Just make sure to adjust cooking time according to the pasta type.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
You can create a vegan version by using dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based milk and cream, and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. The texture and flavor will differ but remain deliciously creamy and satisfying.
How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick or too runny?
Adjust the consistency by adding reserved pasta water little by little if it’s too thick, or simmering gently to reduce if it’s too thin. The pasta water’s starch helps bind everything perfectly.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and gently reheat it before tossing with pasta. Just be sure to stir in some milk or reserved pasta water upon reheating for smoothness.
What’s the best way to grate parmesan cheese for this dish?
Using freshly grated parmesan cheese yields the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-grated powders as they often contain anti-caking agents that affect melting and sauce creaminess.
Final Thoughts
I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe the next time you want a fulfilling meal that feels both special and effortless. Its wonderful balance of simple ingredients and rich flavors makes it a standout in any kitchen. Once you taste that silky, garlicky sauce coating tender spaghetti, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite. So grab your garlic and parmesan, get cooking, and enjoy every creamy bite!
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy spaghetti recipe features a luscious, smooth sauce made from cream cheese, parmesan, and heavy cream, tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a comforting and indulgent pasta dish ideal for easy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Spaghetti
- 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.
- Make the Sauce Base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing.
- Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese, heavy cream, and milk to the skillet.
- Melt and Stir: Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Gradually whisk in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until fully combined and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in unsalted butter until melted for extra richness.
- Season: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce.
- Coat Evenly: Use tongs to toss and coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the creamy spaghetti hot and enjoy this comforting meal right away.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water contains starch which helps to loosen and bind the sauce for a silky texture.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting.
- Adjust milk quantity to achieve your preferred sauce thickness.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives, but expect differences in texture.
- Adding fresh parsley offers a refreshing contrast but can be omitted if unavailable.
