Name: Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 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; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Introduction

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is a comforting and flavorful dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. This creamy pasta combines the richness of melted cheeses with the bright aroma of garlic for a satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.

A close-up image of creamy pasta in a white bowl placed on a white marbled surface. The pasta is coated in a thick, smooth, pale yellow sauce with visible black pepper specks sprinkled on top. The dish is garnished with chopped green herbs scattered unevenly. A fork lifts a section of the pasta, showing a stringy, melted cheese texture stretching from the bowl to the fork, with a woman's hand holding the fork. The lighting highlights the creamy texture and fresh herbs, making the dish look rich and inviting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
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
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: 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 the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for later.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden brown, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Lower the heat and add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt and form a creamy sauce. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, stirring to reach your desired sauce consistency.
Step 4: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the cheesy garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
Swap out mozzarella for fontina or provolone for a different cheesy twist.
Use gluten-free spaghetti if you prefer a gluten-free version.
Add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for added protein.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of pasta water or milk to revive the creamy sauce without drying it out.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy fettuccine pasta, with a woman’s hand lifting a forkful of noodles covered in thick, melted cheese that stretches in long strings. The pasta is coated in a smooth, pale yellow cream sauce, sprinkled with small green parsley leaves and black pepper flakes. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, highlighting the rich texture of the cheesy pasta. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh?

While fresh garlic provides the best flavor and aroma, you can use pre-minced garlic in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon to replace 4 cloves and adjust to taste.

What can I use if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are good substitutes for Parmesan and will provide a similar salty, nutty flavor.