The Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe is a comfort food classic made with simple pantry ingredients that deliver big flavor. With spaghetti tossed in a luscious sauce made from garlic, cream cheese, butter, and Parmesan, this dish is rich, creamy, and irresistible. Finished with fresh herbs, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want something quick yet indulgent.
The Story Behind This Dish
Why Garlic and Parmesan Work So Well
Garlic brings aromatic depth while Parmesan provides a salty, nutty flavor that melts into the sauce. Combined with cream cheese and butter, the result is a smooth, silky pasta dish that feels luxurious yet approachable.
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Comfort Food With Simplicity
This recipe proves that you don’t need complicated steps to create an amazing meal. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can prepare a restaurant-quality pasta at home. For variety, you can serve it alongside your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for a hearty pasta night.
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
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Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is a simple, comforting pasta dish with butter, garlic, Parmesan, and cream cheese for a silky sauce.
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
4 oz cream cheese, softened
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Bring salted water to boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente, 8–10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water. Drain.
2. In skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Lower heat. Add softened cream cheese and half Parmesan. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add reserved pasta water, stirring constantly until glossy.
5. Add spaghetti to skillet. Toss until evenly coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Top with remaining Parmesan and herbs. Serve hot.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes for spice. Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. Store leftovers up to 3 days in fridge and reheat gently with cream or milk.
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Nutrition
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Ingredients and Substitutions
- Spaghetti – Choose high-quality dried spaghetti for the best bite.
- Garlic – Freshly minced cloves, never jarred.
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for smooth melting.
- Cream cheese – Softened to create a creamy base.
- Butter – Unsalted to balance seasoning.
- Fresh parsley or basil – For garnish and freshness.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning.
Optional Additions
- Red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook 8–10 minutes until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Sauté the Garlic
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Build the Sauce
- Lower heat and stir in softened cream cheese.
- Add half the grated Parmesan, stirring until smooth.
Add Pasta Water
- Gradually add reserved pasta water while stirring.
- Continue until sauce is glossy and clings to the spoon.
Toss With Pasta
- Add cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet.
- Toss until every strand is coated in sauce.
Finish With Seasoning and Herbs
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with remaining Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
Best Ways to Serve
This pasta is a star on its own but pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp side salad. It’s also a fantastic companion to roasted chicken or seafood.
Drinks to Pair
- A glass of white wine like Chardonnay.
- Sparkling water with lemon.
- For indulgence, pair with light Italian desserts.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as cream cheese sauces may separate.
Variations and Twists
- Spicy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti – Add chili flakes for heat.
- Protein-Packed – Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage.
- Vegetarian Delight – Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini.
- Extra Cheesy – Stir in mozzarella or cream cheese for richness.
FAQ Section
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, but for the creamiest results, make the sauce fresh and toss with pasta before serving.
What’s the best pasta shape to use?
Spaghetti is classic, but linguine or fettuccine also work.
Can I make it lighter?
Yes, use reduced-fat cream cheese and half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Do I need to use fresh Parmesan?
Yes, freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly, unlike pre-shredded cheese.
Conclusion
The Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. With its silky garlic-Parmesan sauce and tender spaghetti, this pasta delivers comfort and elegance in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or romantic evenings, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
