Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
An inviting and quick pasta dish made with garlic, butter, cream, and Parmesan, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti Feel free to swap with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Add more if you're a garlic lover!
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter option, use half-and-half.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for the best flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish and freshness.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Making the Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly golden (about 1-2 minutes).
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly while you add the reserved pasta water.
- Slowly whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Add salt and pepper to taste; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
Combining and Serving
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, add it directly to the skillet. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is coated in the creamy sauce.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.
Notes
To add variety, consider mixing in sautéed spinach, grilled shrimp, or red pepper flakes for heat. Serve with a Caesar salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.