Here’s a quick and delicious recipe for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a comforting side dish:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (about half a package) spaghetti pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or more for extra cheesiness)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking the spaghetti)
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes for al dente. Once cooked, reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
- Prepare the garlic butter sauce: While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine the pasta with the sauce: Once the garlic is fragrant, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the butter.
- Add cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, tossing everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water to help create a creamy sauce.
- Season: Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep tossing until the cheese is melted and the pasta is coated in a cheesy, creamy sauce.
- Serve: Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips:
- Extra cheesy: Add more mozzarella or Parmesan if you like your pasta extra cheesy!
- Garlic: You can adjust the amount of garlic depending on how strong you like the flavor.
- Protein option: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to turn this into a more hearty meal.
- Herbs: Feel free to sprinkle in some dried or fresh Italian herbs (like basil, oregano, or thyme) for added flavor.
This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is a creamy, flavorful, and cheesy dish that’s sure to be a family favorite! Enjoy!