Description
Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with Cream Cheese is a delightful and creamy pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and cream cheese for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the softened cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For added protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
- Substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk for a lighter version while still maintaining creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg