Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

It’s that perfect evening when the aroma of sautéed garlic fills the kitchen, promising a dish that warms the soul. This recipe for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is a delightful combination of rich cheeses and the comforting bite of garlic, ready in just 30 minutes. The blend of creamy textures and savory flavors makes it an instant favorite for any pasta lover.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, quick dinners, or when craving something indulgent without too much effort. You can easily prepare the sauce ahead of time, allowing you to toss it with freshly cooked pasta anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and cheesy, thanks to the blend of Parmesan and mozzarella.
• Fresh garlic contributes a fragrant, rich flavor that elevates the dish.
• Quick cook time makes it ideal for a weeknight meal.
• Simple ingredients come together for a deliciously satisfying result.

What You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients for this delightful pasta dish.

For the Pasta

• 8 oz spaghetti

For the 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

For a lighter version, use whole wheat spaghetti.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Spaghetti can be replaced with any pasta type.
• Olive oil can be substituted with avocado oil.
• Parmesan can be swapped for Pecorino Romano.
• Fresh parsley can be replaced with basil.

How to Make It

Let’s whip up this tasty dish in just a few simple steps.

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, it affects the cheese texture.
Reheat: in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Adjust pasta water based on desired sauce thickness.
• Mix in additional veggies like spinach for extra nutrition.
• Always taste and season before serving for optimal flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
• It’s the perfect dish for a cozy movie night at home.