Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

The aroma of garlic and melted cheese wafts through the kitchen, instantly filling it with warmth and comfort. Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is a delightful dish that brings together al dente pasta, rich cheeses, and fragrant garlic in just under 30 minutes. The creamy sauce achieves a perfect balance that makes every bite satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something indulgent yet easy to prepare. It’s great for families or intimate dinners and can be made ahead, allowing flavors to meld beautifully if stored properly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy cheese sauce coats each strand of spaghetti perfectly.
• Fresh garlic adds a flavorful kick without overpowering.
• Quick to prepare, it’s on the table in under 30 minutes.
• Parsley garnish enhances the dish’s freshness and appeal.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious meal.

For the Pasta

• 8 oz spaghetti

For the Garlic Sauce

• 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

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Parmesan can be substituted with Pecorino Romano.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
• Swap mozzarella with cheddar for a sharper flavor.
• Coconut oil can replace unsalted butter for dairy-free.
• Dried parsley can substitute fresh if necessary.

How to Make It

Start by cooking the spaghetti until it’s nicely al dente.

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.

Prepare the garlic sauce

In a large skillet, heat unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Add cheese and pasta water

Lower the heat, then add the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheeses melt and combine into a creamy sauce. Add the reserved pasta water gradually, stirring to adjust the sauce’s consistency to your liking.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the cheesy garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Freezer: No, pasta texture changes.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly minced garlic for stronger flavor.
• Adjust the pasta water to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
• Don’t skip the parsley; it adds great freshness and color.
• Ensure the heat is low when adding cheese to prevent clumping.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside garlic bread to complement the flavors.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a cozy dinner.