Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

Creamy garlic parmesan spaghetti always reminds me of a rainy afternoon when I craved something rich and comforting yet didn’t want to spend too long in the kitchen. I opened the pantry spotted a box of spaghetti and within thirty minutes I had a steaming bowl of creamy pasta that felt like something out of a restaurant even though I made it in sweatpants.

What I love most about creamy garlic parmesan spaghetti is that it hits that perfect balance between simple and indulgent. The garlic infuses the cream with warmth while the parmesan adds salty depth and the noodles soak it all up like a dream. It’s one of those back-pocket recipes that never fails me and I hope it becomes one of yours too.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Spaghetti – The perfect pasta to cling to creamy sauces.
• Heavy cream – Adds rich silkiness to the sauce base.
• Fresh garlic – Brings warmth and depth with every bite.
• Parmesan cheese – The key to that salty nutty flavor.
• Butter – Helps sauté the garlic and adds richness.
• Black pepper – Enhances the cream and cheese without overpowering.
• Salt – Balances the flavors throughout the dish.
• Fresh parsley – For garnish and a fresh herbal note at the end.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Large pot – I use this to boil the spaghetti until perfectly al dente.
• Large skillet or saucepan – This is where the creamy sauce magic happens.
• Tongs – Perfect for tossing and serving the pasta with the sauce.
• Garlic press or fine grater – Helps get the garlic super fine and flavorful.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Keeps everything balanced and accurate.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

I begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil then I add the spaghetti and cook it until just al dente because it will finish cooking in the sauce. I reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet I melt the butter over medium heat then I add the minced garlic and cook it for about a minute just until it’s fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

I pour in the heavy cream and stir gently then I let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so it starts to thicken slightly. Next I stir in the grated parmesan cheese and season with black pepper and a pinch of salt until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

I add the cooked spaghetti straight into the skillet and use tongs to toss it in the sauce so it’s fully coated. If the sauce feels too thick I splash in a bit of the reserved pasta water until it loosens up to the texture I like.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once everything’s creamy and hot I plate the pasta and top it with more grated parmesan and chopped parsley then serve it immediately while the sauce is still silky.

Tips

If I want to add a protein I sometimes stir in grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp just before serving. For a lighter version I’ve tried using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and it still turns out lovely. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or chili flakes for a little extra twist.

Ways to Serve

I often serve this pasta with a crisp green salad and a piece of crusty garlic bread. It’s also amazing topped with lemon zest for a bit of brightness or alongside roasted veggies for a more complete meal. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of milk or cream!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of parmesan should I use in creamy garlic parmesan spaghetti?

Freshly grated parmesan works best because it melts smoothly and gives the sauce a richer flavor than pre-shredded kinds.

Can I make creamy garlic parmesan spaghetti ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh but you can make the sauce ahead and reheat it gently before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta.

What other pasta shapes can I use?

Fettuccine penne or linguine all work well and hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this creamy garlic parmesan spaghetti a try soon! It’s one of those dishes that looks elegant but takes almost no time and brings all the comfort of home. Let me know how yours turns out and feel free to share your favorite add-ins!

Happy Cooking!

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