Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of twirling up forkfuls of creamy, flavor-packed noodles, this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti will absolutely win your heart—and your tastebuds! It’s that magical combination of rich cheeses, golden garlic, and silky pasta that turns a simple pantry meal into a weeknight legend. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have a dish so comforting and delicious, you’ll want to make it again and again. This is the kind of recipe you’ll crave for both quick lunches and cozy dinners with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something so satisfying about how a handful of classic ingredients come together to make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti pure perfection. Each ingredient shines, bringing key flavors and the type of dreamy textures that make this dish hard to resist.

• Spaghetti: The perfect canvas for soaking up all that cheesy, garlicky sauce—make sure to cook until just al dente for the best bite!
• Fresh garlic (4 cloves, minced): Responsible for the irresistible aroma and robust depth—you’ll want to savor every garlicky forkful.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup, plus extra): The star of the show, Parmesan gives that nutty, sharp punch and creates a silky, clingy sauce.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds creaminess and stretch—watch it melt into the sauce for ultimate comfort-factor.
• Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Used with olive oil, this helps mellow the garlic while building a rich base for the sauce.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Perfect for sautéing garlic and achieving that lush, glossy coating on your noodles.
• Salt and pepper: Don’t skip the seasoning—both balance the richness and enhance every flavor note.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: This brings a pop of color and a fresh, herby finish that lightens each bite.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a generously salted pot of water to a rolling boil—salting is key for flavor! Add your spaghetti and cook according to package directions, aiming for a perfect al dente texture so the pasta holds up when tossed in the sauce. Before you drain, be sure to reserve about half a cup of pasta water; this starchy liquid is liquid gold for adjusting your sauce’s consistency later.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

While your pasta cooks, grab a roomy skillet. Melt the unsalted butter with olive oil over medium heat. When it starts to shimmer, swirl in your minced garlic. Sauté gently for just 1-2 minutes, stirring often—you want the garlic to turn barely golden and fragrant, not brown. This step sets the stage for all that savory flavor in your Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti!

Step 3: Add Cheese and Pasta Water

Drop the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. As the cheeses begin to melt, slowly pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time. Stir until everything melds into a creamy, luscious sauce. The pasta water’s starch gives the sauce a glossy finish and the perfect consistency for clinging to your spaghetti.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your drained spaghetti straight to the skillet, tossing (with tongs if you have them) until every strand is coated in cheesy, garlicky goodness. Give it a taste, then season generously with salt and black pepper. Take a moment to appreciate the aroma—it’s absolutely heavenly!

Step 5: Serve

Plate the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti promptly while it’s still hot and creamy. Sprinkle with a little more grated Parmesan and a generous scattering of fresh, chopped parsley. The contrast of green against the cheesy noodles is both gorgeous and inviting. Enjoy right away for maximum melty deliciousness.

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

Garnishes

A finishing touch of fresh parsley and an extra handful of grated Parmesan adds color, flavor, and a bit of drama to your Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes works beautifully, too!

Side Dishes

This spaghetti is rich and satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic bread or roasted veggies—they’ll soak up any leftover sauce and complement the comforting flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti in individual pasta bowls for an elegant dinner party effect. Twist the pasta into little nests with tongs for a restaurant-style look, or let everyone help themselves family-style from one big, inviting platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It keeps its creamy texture surprisingly well, making it ideal for packed lunches or quick next-day dinners.

Freezing

While this dish is at its best freshly made, you can freeze portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to one month. Just know that the cheesy sauce may separate a little once thawed, but a gentle reheat can help bring it back together.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to your pasta before microwaving or warming gently on the stovetop. Stir occasionally to restore the sauce’s creaminess and prevent the noodles from sticking. Top with fresh Parmesan and parsley before serving to revive those flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While classic spaghetti is traditional for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti, feel free to swap in fettuccine, linguine, or even short shapes like penne or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I make this dish a little healthier?

You can lighten things up by using whole wheat pasta, reducing the cheese slightly, or adding steamed veggies like spinach, peas, or broccoli to the sauce. The flavors are flexible, so personalize it to fit your nutritional needs.

Is there a good way to add protein?

Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even some crispy bacon are all fantastic additions to Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti. Stir them in just before serving to keep every bite balanced and satisfying.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti—most hold up really well. Check that your Parmesan and mozzarella are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities, but most are naturally so.

What’s the best way to keep the sauce creamy?

Adding the reserved pasta water slowly and stirring continuously helps keep the sauce smooth and silky. If you find the sauce thickens up as it sits, just loosen it with another splash of hot water before serving.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is one of those soul-satisfying recipes that’s ridiculously simple yet feels like something truly special. Gather your ingredients, invite someone you love to the table, and let the magic of cheese and garlic work its wonders. Give this dish a try soon—you just might find it becomes your new go-to comfort meal!

Print