Description
Enjoy a creamy and cheesy spaghetti dish featuring garlic, butter, and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. This quick and comforting recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, guaranteed to delight everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
### Creamy Cheesy Spaghetti Recipe
#### Description
Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spaghetti dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and two types of cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.
#### Ingredients
– 8 ounces spaghetti
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
#### Instructions
1. **Boil Water**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon of salt).
2. **Cook the Spaghetti**: Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally.
3. **Reserve Pasta Water**: Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water.
4. **Drain and Set Aside**: Drain the spaghetti and set aside without rinsing.
5. **Melt the Butter**: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
6. **Sauté the Garlic**: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
7. **Add Red Pepper Flakes**: Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
8. **Pour in the Heavy Cream**: Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously, and bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
9. **Incorporate the Cheeses**: Gradually add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
10. **Season the Sauce**: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
11. **Add the Spaghetti**: Toss the drained spaghetti in the sauce until well coated. Add more reserved pasta water if necessary.
12. **Heat Through**: Allow the spaghetti to heat through in the sauce for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
13. **Plate the Spaghetti**: Twirl the spaghetti onto plates or into bowls for presentation.
14. **Garnish**: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
15. **Final Touches**: Optionally, add extra grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
16. **Serve Immediately**: Enjoy hot, ideally paired with a side salad or garlic bread.
#### Notes
– **Add Protein**: Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal.
– **Vegetable Additions**: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
– **Make it Lighter**: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative.
#### Prep Time
10 minutes
#### Cook Time
20 minutes
#### Total Time
30 minutes
#### Yield
Serves 4
Notes
- Add Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
- Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes