Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe

Simple yet sophisticated, this creamy parmesan spaghetti recipe is a perfect blend of comfort and luxury. The combination of creamy, rich sauce and a strong, salty bite of parmesan takes this classic pasta dish to a new level of deliciousness.

Photos of Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are pantry staples. However, you might need to pay a special visit to the supermarket for shaved parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Parmesan is a hard, granular cheese known for its rich umami flavor, while heavy cream is a high-fat cream that gives the pasta its creamy texture.

Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti

Spaghetti noodles: The core ingredient, spaghetti is a long, thin, cylindrical pasta of Italian origin. It's versatile and absorbs flavors well.

Butter: Adds a rich, savory flavor to the pasta and helps to sauté the garlic.

Minced garlic: Provides a robust flavor that complements the cream and cheese perfectly.

Heavy cream: A denser version of whipping cream, it lends a rich and creamy texture to the dish.

Parmesan cheese: A hard, granular cheese that adds a sharp and tangy flavor to the spaghetti.

Salt and pepper: Used for seasoning, they enhance the overall taste of the dish.

One reader, Brooks Morales says:

This creamy parmesan spaghetti recipe is a game-changer! The combination of heavy cream and parmesan creates a rich and indulgent sauce that perfectly coats the spaghetti. The flavors are so satisfying, and the dish is incredibly comforting. It's become a family favorite in our household!

Brooks Morales

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti

How to cook spaghetti noodles: Boil the noodles in a large pot of salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

How to make garlic butter: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

How to melt parmesan cheese: Add heavy cream and shaved parmesan to the skillet, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

How to season with salt and pepper: Sprinkle the dish with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

How To Make Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti

This 15-minute parmesan spaghetti yields a lusciously creamy and cheesy dish, that’s flavored with robust garlic, for a delectable dinner meal!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12ozspaghetti noodles
1tbspbutter
3tspgarlic,minced
1cupheavy cream
⅔cupparmesan cheese,shaved, plus more for topping
salt and pepper,to taste

Instructions

Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package’s instructions. Drain and set aside.
Add butter to a large skillet and melt over medium heat. Add garlic and stir for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant. Transfer the spaghetti to the pan and stir to coat in the garlic butter.
Add the heavy cream and parmesan to pan, then stir until parmesan is completely melted and combined and noodles are coated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 647.86kcal
Fat: 32.61g
Saturated Fat: 19.84g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.12g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.56g
Carbohydrates: 67.00g
Fiber: 2.90g
Sugar: 4.16g
Protein: 21.39g
Cholesterol: 106.00mg
Sodium: 408.14mg
Calcium: 356.98mg
Potassium: 273.34mg
Iron: 1.41mg
Vitamin A: 320.27µg
Vitamin C: 1.01mg

Essential Technique Tip for Making Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti

When melting the parmesan cheese into the heavy cream, ensure to keep the heat at a medium to low setting. This will prevent the cream from boiling and the cheese from burning. Stir continuously for a smooth and creamy consistency. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the pasta water to thin it out. This water contains starch that will help to emulsify the sauce, making it silky and ensuring it clings to the spaghetti noodles.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Creamy Pasta Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the minced garlic and shave the parmesan cheese in advance to save time during the cooking process.

One-pot cooking: Consider using a large pot to cook the spaghetti and then use the same pot to prepare the sauce, reducing the number of dishes to clean.

Quick melting: Use finely grated parmesan cheese for quicker melting and smoother sauce consistency.

Multitask: While the spaghetti is cooking, start preparing the sauce to streamline the cooking process and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe

spaghetti noodles - Substitute with linguine: Linguine has a similar texture and shape to spaghetti, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a rich flavor and silkiness to the dish, similar to butter, while also making it a healthier option.
minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for minced garlic, providing a milder flavor and evenly distributing the garlic taste throughout the dish.
heavy cream - Substitute with half-and-half: Half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, providing a creamy texture while reducing the overall fat content.
shaved parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese has a similar sharp and salty flavor to Parmesan, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Garlic salt can add a savory flavor with a hint of garlic, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a milder and less pungent flavor while maintaining the desired level of spiciness.

Best Way to Present Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti

Elevate the plating: Present the creamy parmesan spaghetti in a shallow, wide bowl to showcase the creamy sauce and allow the noodles to spread out elegantly.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley and basil over the spaghetti to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Add a touch of luxury: Shave some additional parmesan cheese over the top of the dish using a fine grater to create a visually stunning presentation.
Consider the visual balance: Ensure the dish is visually appealing by arranging the spaghetti neatly in the center of the plate and drizzling a small amount of extra cream around the edges for a touch of elegance.
Use high-quality tableware: Select fine, white porcelain plates to serve the dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the spaghetti and garnishes to stand out beautifully.

Essential Tools for Making This Creamy Pasta Recipe

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with holes used for draining liquids from food.
Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Pot: A deep round container used for cooking food over heat.
Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate foods into fine pieces, such as cheese or vegetables.
Measuring cup: A tool used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
Garlic press: A handheld tool used to crush garlic cloves into a paste or mince them finely.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together.
Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.

How to Store and Freeze Leftover Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti

To store leftover creamy parmesan spaghetti, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the spaghetti. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen creamy parmesan spaghetti, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of heavy cream or milk to help reconstitute the sauce and bring back its creamy consistency. Stir well and heat until the pasta is warmed through and the sauce is smooth.
Note: The texture of the spaghetti may change slightly after freezing and thawing, as the cream sauce can sometimes separate or become grainy. However, adding a little extra cream or milk during reheating will help mitigate this issue and restore the dish's creamy texture.

How to Reheat Leftover Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti

The best way to reheat leftover creamy parmesan spaghetti is to use a microwave or a stovetop. If using a microwave, place the spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of heavy cream or milk to help keep the sauce creamy. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the noodles from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
If using a stovetop, place the spaghetti in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of heavy cream or milk to the pan and stir gently until the noodles are heated through and the sauce is creamy. Be careful not to overheat the spaghetti, as this can cause the sauce to separate and become greasy.
Another option is to reheat the spaghetti in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the spaghetti in an oven-safe dish and add a splash of heavy cream or milk. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to stir the spaghetti occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent the noodles from sticking together. You may also want to add a sprinkle of fresh parmesan cheese on top before serving to refresh the flavor.
If you find that the sauce has thickened too much during storage, you can thin it out with a bit of reserved pasta water or chicken broth. This will help to loosen the sauce and make it easier to coat the noodles evenly.

Random Fact About Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti

Parmesan spaghetti is a classic Italian dish that originated in Rome. The dish is known for its simplicity and rich, creamy flavor. It is believed that the original recipe for Parmesan spaghetti was created in the 20th century, making it a relatively modern addition to Italian cuisine. Despite its simplicity, this dish has become a beloved comfort food around the world, and it's a popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Is Making Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti at Home Economical?

This creamy parmesan spaghetti recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and readily available, making it an affordable option for a family meal. The use of basic pantry staples like spaghetti noodles, butter, and garlic keeps the cost low. The addition of heavy cream and parmesan cheese adds richness without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $12-15.

Is This Creamy Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy parmesan spaghetti recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High in saturated fat: The heavy cream and parmesan cheese contribute to a high saturated fat content, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess.
Refined carbohydrates: Spaghetti noodles are made from refined flour, which has been stripped of its fiber and nutrients. This can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels.
Low in fiber: The recipe lacks fiber-rich ingredients, such as vegetables, which are essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and promoting feelings of fullness.
High in calories: The combination of heavy cream, butter, and cheese makes this dish calorie-dense, which may not be suitable for those trying to maintain a healthy weight.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the heavy cream for a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt, to reduce the saturated fat content without sacrificing creaminess.
Use whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles instead of regular spaghetti to increase the fiber content and reduce the impact on blood sugar levels.
Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or asparagus to the dish to boost its nutritional value and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Reduce the amount of butter and cheese used in the recipe to lower the overall calorie and fat content. You can also opt for a lower-fat parmesan cheese or use it more sparingly.
Incorporate lean protein sources, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make the meal more balanced and satisfying.

Editor's Thoughts on This Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe

This creamy parmesan spaghetti recipe is a delightful combination of rich and savory flavors. The use of heavy cream and parmesan cheese creates a lusciously creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti beautifully. The addition of garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor, while the simplicity of the dish allows the quality of the ingredients to shine. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to please any pasta lover.

Enhance Your Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: A warm and crispy garlic bread would perfectly complement the creamy parmesan spaghetti. The buttery, garlicky flavor will elevate the dish to a whole new level.

Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus spears with a hint of lemon zest would provide a refreshing and nutritious side to balance out the richness of the creamy parmesan spaghetti.

Caprese Salad: A colorful and vibrant caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze would add a burst of freshness to the creamy parmesan spaghetti.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, and potatoes in a rich and flavorful broth.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: Marinated in a zesty citrus blend, this grilled chicken is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a summer barbecue.

Mango Coconut Rice Pudding: Creamy coconut milk and sweet mango come together in this delicious and comforting rice pudding, perfect for dessert or a sweet breakfast option.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke dip with crispy tortilla chips for a perfect start to any meal. The warm, gooey dip is packed with flavor and will leave your guests wanting more.

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. They are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion and are sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of decadence.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and satisfying berry parfait that's perfect for any time of day.

Why trust this Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience with its rich and creamy texture, balanced with the savory notes of parmesan cheese. The combination of butter and garlic infuses the dish with a tantalizing aroma and depth of flavor. The use of heavy cream ensures a luscious and indulgent sauce that perfectly coats the spaghetti noodles. With the addition of salt and pepper, the dish is seasoned to perfection, offering a symphony of flavors in every bite. Trust in this recipe for a truly satisfying and memorable dining experience.

Want to share your experience making this Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What type of pasta can I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, linguine, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Can I use grated parmesan instead of shaved parmesan?

Yes, you can use grated parmesan if that's what you have on hand. It will still give the dish a deliciously cheesy flavor.

Is it okay to use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

While heavy cream provides the richest and creamiest result, you can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick.

Can I add vegetables or protein to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even some sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to make it a heartier meal.

How can I store any leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of cream to refresh the sauce.