Dreamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe

Creamy pasta dreams come alive with this velvety garlic parmesan spaghetti with cream cheese that promises pure comfort in every bite.

Tangy cream cheese melds perfectly with rich parmesan, creating a luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to each strand of spaghetti.

Garlic adds a warm, aromatic depth that turns this simple dish into something extraordinary.

Home cooks adore how quickly this recipe comes together with just a few pantry staples.

The combination of sharp cheese and mellow garlic creates a harmonious flavor profile that feels both elegant and approachable.

Weeknight dinners never looked so delicious, with this irresistible pasta ready in less than 30 minutes.

Prepare to fall in love with a new go-to meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 540 kcal

Servings: 4

Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with Cream Cheese

• Spaghetti: Perfect long pasta for catching creamy sauce, choose high-quality semolina wheat variety for best texture.

• Butter: Adds rich depth and helps create smooth sauce base, use unsalted for better flavor control.
• Heavy Cream: Provides luxurious silky texture, select high-fat content cream for maximum richness.
• Cream Cheese: Delivers incredible tangy creaminess, room temperature helps melt smoothly.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings sharp, nutty flavor profile, freshly grated provides superior taste and melting quality.

• Garlic: Delivers intense aromatic punch, fresh minced garlic offers more robust taste than pre-chopped.
• Salt: Balances and elevates overall dish flavor, use fine sea salt for even distribution.
• Black Pepper: Adds subtle warmth and complexity, freshly ground provides more vibrant taste.
• Parsley: Introduces fresh herbal brightness, bright green flat-leaf variety recommended for best flavor.

Tools for Mixing Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Just Right

• Large Pot: Essential for boiling spaghetti with plenty of salted water.
• Skillet: Perfect for creating the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
• Colander: Needed to drain the cooked pasta quickly and efficiently.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring sauce and mixing pasta.
• Cheese Grater: Helps create fresh, fluffy Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.
• Measuring Cups: Useful for accurately measuring cream and ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: Required for mincing garlic and chopping fresh parsley.

Make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with a Twist

• Boil Pasta Water

Grab a large pot and fill it with water. Sprinkle in some salt and bring the water to a rolling boil. Drop the spaghetti into the bubbling water and cook until perfectly tender.

• Whip Up Creamy Sauce

Melt butter in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic and let it dance around until it releases its aromatic. Pour in heavy cream and watch it shimmer. Blend in cream cheese until the mixture becomes silky smooth.

• Build Flavor Layers

Sprinkle grated Parmesan into the sauce, stirring gently. Let the cheese melt and create a luxurious, velvety texture. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to make the flavors pop.

• Marry Pasta and Sauce

Slide the cooked spaghetti into the skillet. Twirl and toss until every strand gets coated in the decadent sauce. Scatter fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.

• Plate and Devour

Transfer the steaming pasta to serving plates. Dust with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Dive in and savor the creamy, garlicky goodness that awaits!

Tips That Make Cream Cheese Blend Smoothly

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and smoother melting.
• Whisk cream cheese at room temperature to prevent lumps and ensure silky consistency.
• Replace regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to transform this dish into a complete meal with extra protein.
• Prepare sauce separately and store in refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.

Serve Spaghetti for Comfort Food Nights

• Cozy Family Dinner Centerpiece: Place the spaghetti in a large, rustic serving dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a warm, inviting presentation that draws everyone to the table.
• Elegant Side Companion: Pair the creamy pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the rich, cheesy flavors and add a refreshing contrast.
• Protein Power-Up: Top the spaghetti with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta to transform this dish into a more substantial meal that satisfies hearty appetites.
• Wine Pairing: Complement the creamy, garlicky notes with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, enhancing the overall dining experience with a perfect beverage match.

Store Cheesy Pasta for Lunch Later

• Transfer any leftover spaghetti to an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Keep the pasta fresh for 3-4 days, maintaining optimal taste and texture.
• Warm the stored spaghetti in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to restore moisture. Stir gently to prevent sticking and revive the creamy sauce's original consistency.
• Separate sauce and pasta before freezing to prevent texture breakdown. Store sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Divide leftovers into individual meal-sized containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. Label containers with the date to track freshness and ensure quick meal planning during busy weeks.

FAQs

• Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with fettuccine, linguine, or penne. Just ensure you cook the alternative pasta according to its package instructions.

• Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this cheesy garlic Parmesan spaghetti is vegetarian-friendly. It does not contain any meat products.

• How can I make this dish more protein-rich?

You can add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon bits to increase the protein content and add extra flavor to the pasta.

• What if I don't have fresh parsley?

No problem! You can use dried parsley flakes or skip it entirely. The dish will still taste delicious with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.

Velvety Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti With Cream Cheese Recipe

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4.7 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti with cream cheese delivers a comforting Italian-inspired pasta experience. Pasta lovers will savor this creamy, indulgent dish that combines rich flavors and simple ingredients for a satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 300 g (10 oz) spaghetti
• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
• ¾ cup (75 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 2 tbsps unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsps fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt, for boiling water
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Pasta Preparation: Boil water with generous salt and cook spaghetti until perfectly al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta, preserving its potential for sauce absorption.
2. Flavor Foundation: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, releasing its aromatic essence without burning, creating a robust base layer.
3. Sauce Creation: Introduce heavy cream to the skillet, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Whisk cream cheese into the liquid, ensuring complete integration and developing a silky, luxurious sauce texture.
4. Cheese Incorporation: Fold grated Parmesan into the developing sauce, stirring consistently to create a harmonious blend. Allow the mixture to thicken and deepen in flavor complexity for 2-3 minutes.
5. Seasoning and Finishing: Adjust sauce with salt and pepper to balance flavors. Integrate drained spaghetti directly into the skillet, thoroughly coating each strand with the creamy garlic-infused sauce. Gently fold in fresh parsley for a vibrant herbal accent.
6. Serving: Plate the spaghetti immediately while piping hot. Garnish with additional Parmesan shavings and a final sprinkle of parsley for an elegant presentation.

Notes

Prevent Pasta Sticking: Stir spaghetti continuously during initial cooking to prevent clumping and ensure even cooking throughout the pasta.

Cheese Melting Technique: Reduce heat when adding cheeses to prevent separation and maintain a smooth, creamy sauce consistency without graininess.

Garlic Burning Prevention: Sauté garlic quickly on medium-low heat, watching carefully to release flavor without bitter burnt notes that can ruin the entire dish.

Dietary Modification Options: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for lighter version; use gluten-free pasta for celiac-friendly alternative; replace dairy with vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast for plant-based adaptation.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 52 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg