This Easy Creamy Spaghetti is a warm hug in a bowl! With just a few simple ingredients like pasta, cream, and cheese, it’s quick to whip up on a busy night.
I love how it makes dinner feel special even on a hectic day. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy twirling creamy spaghetti around their fork? It’s the little things that count! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti is great, but you can swap it for linguine or fettuccine if you prefer. Gluten-free pasta works well too, and even zucchini noodles (zoodles) are a fun low-carb option!
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control of seasoning. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative works in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter sauce. For a vegan option, try using cashew cream or a plant-based cream substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but pre-grated works too. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, ensure it’s rennet-free. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free swap for a cheesy flavor!
How Can I Ensure My Garlic Doesn’t Burn?
Garlic adds amazing flavor, but it can burn quickly. To avoid this, follow these tips:
- Start with medium heat. This allows the garlic to cook without turning bitter.
- Add the garlic after melting the butter, and watch it closely. Stir it often for even cooking.
- If you notice it browning too fast, lower the heat immediately.
By keeping an eye on it, you’ll get that lovely garlic aroma without the unpleasant burnt taste!
Easy Creamy Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes total for this recipe. This includes 10 minutes for cooking the spaghetti and about 5 minutes to prepare the creamy sauce and combine everything. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente (a little firm, but cooked through). Once done, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream thickens slightly. This will make your sauce rich and creamy!
4. Add Cheese and Season:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes velvety. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust to your liking!
5. Combine with Spaghetti:
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is well-mixed, remove the skillet from heat. Serve your creamy spaghetti immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor if you like!
Enjoy your quick and delicious creamy spaghetti dinner!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Spaghetti Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is delicious, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, linguine, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based cream like coconut cream or cashew cream, which will add a lovely flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
Can I Add Vegetables or Protein to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even bacon to make it heartier!
