Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe uses basic ingredients yet delivers such a bold and creamy flavor. The garlic adds depth, while the blend of Parmesan and mozzarella creates a smooth, cheesy sauce that coats every strand of pasta. I also enjoy how fast it comes together, making it perfect for an easy meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz spaghetti
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

I start by cooking the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Before draining, I reserve some pasta water to help with the sauce later.

In a large skillet, I heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. I add the minced garlic and sauté it gently until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden.

I lower the heat and add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring until they begin to melt. I gradually pour in some reserved pasta water, mixing until I get a smooth and creamy sauce.

I add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. I season with salt and pepper to taste.

I serve the pasta hot, topped with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Preparation time takes about 10 minutes.
Cooking time takes around 20 minutes.
Total time is approximately 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. When I want more flavor, I include a pinch of chili flakes or sauté mushrooms with the garlic. I also like adding spinach for a bit of freshness.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it in a pan over low heat and add a splash of water or milk to bring back the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, I use any pasta I have on hand, and it works just as well.

How do I keep the sauce creamy?

I add pasta water gradually and keep the heat low to prevent the cheese from clumping.

Can I use pre-grated cheese?

I can, but I prefer freshly grated cheese because it melts more smoothly.

What can I add for extra flavor?

I sometimes add herbs, chili flakes, or cooked vegetables for more depth.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I can, but I find it tastes best when served fresh.

Conclusion

I keep making this cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti because it’s simple, quick, and incredibly comforting. It’s one of those dishes that always satisfies when I want something creamy and full of flavor without too much effort.