If you’re looking for pure comfort in a bowl, Creamy Spaghetti is your ticket to food bliss. Silky strands of pasta coated in a garlic-infused cream sauce, showered with Parmesan, and finished with a flourish of fresh parsley—this dish is simple enough for a weeknight but so luscious you’ll want to share it with loved ones. Whether it’s your first try or an old favorite, Creamy Spaghetti brings warmth and joy to any table, turning everyday ingredients into something truly magical.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Spaghetti comes together with just a handful of essential ingredients—each one playing a starring role in creating flavor, texture, or that dreamy, creamy finish. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:

Spaghetti: The classic canvas for this silky sauce—the shape perfectly traps every bit of creaminess.
Olive oil: Adds richness and carries the flavors of garlic and spice into every strand.
Garlic (minced): The aromatic backbone—nothing beats the scent and taste of fresh garlic sizzling in oil.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Just a pinch lends a gentle, warming kick, but skip it if you prefer a milder sauce.
Heavy cream: The heart of creamy spaghetti—think velvet on your tongue for that unforgettable luscious texture.
Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce for ultimate cling.
Reserved pasta water: Starchy gold that brings everything together and lets you hit that perfect creamy consistency.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning—taste as you go to highlight every ingredient.
Chopped parsley: The pop of color and freshness every creamy spaghetti plate deserves.

How to Make Creamy Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Fill a large pot with generously salted water and bring it to a boil. Drop in your spaghetti and give it a good stir—this prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. Cook until just al dente, following the package instructions, then ladle out about half a cup of that starchy pasta water and set it aside before draining the spaghetti. This water is the secret to sassy, silky sauce later on!

Step 2: Infuse the Oil

While the pasta’s bubbling away, grab your biggest skillet and set it over medium heat. Pour in the olive oil and, once shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for just a minute or two until fragrant but not browned—the aroma will let you know it’s time to move to the next layer of flavor.

Step 3: Build the Cream Dream

Lower the heat to give the sauce a gentle start, then pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer quietly for a couple of minutes, allowing it to thicken ever so slightly and soak up all those garlicky notes. Add the grated Parmesan and whisk until melted and smooth—this is where the magic happens and the creamy spaghetti sauce comes to life.

Step 4: Toss and Perfect

Add your cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet, using tongs to swirl and coat every strand in that glorious, cheesy cream. If the sauce looks a tad too thick, stir in some reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your ideal consistency. Give everything a taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Move quickly here—creamy spaghetti is best enjoyed right out of the pan. Plate it up and finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a bright, herby contrast. Dig in immediately and savor every forkful!

How to Serve Creamy Spaghetti

Garnishes

A finish of chopped parsley is classic, but you can also add an extra shower of fresh-grated Parmesan or a twist of cracked black pepper if you’re feeling fancy. For a gentle zing, add a few lemon zest curls on top right before serving—this lifts the whole creamy spaghetti experience.

Side Dishes

Creamy Spaghetti pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad (think arugula or baby kale, lightly dressed) to balance the richness. A chunk of crusty bread for mopping up extra sauce? Always a good idea. If you want to round out the meal, roasted veggies or a simple Caprese salad work wonders alongside this dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the usual bowls! Swirl the creamy spaghetti into elegant nests with tongs for a restaurant-style look, or portion it into individual ramekins for dinner parties. Top with sauteed mushrooms, grilled chicken, or baby spinach to make it your own and give the presentation a unique twist each time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover creamy spaghetti, let it cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days without losing too much of that dreamy sauce texture.

Freezing

Freezing is possible with creamy spaghetti, though the sauce may separate a bit on thawing due to the cream. For best quality, store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring creamy spaghetti back to life, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk, cream, or extra reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce to its original silkiness. Stir frequently and avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from splitting.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional for this creamy spaghetti recipe, you can swap in fettuccine, linguine, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep an eye on cooking times and adjust accordingly.

Is it possible to make this lighter?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for some or all of the heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. For a veggie boost, add steamed spinach or zucchini for a lighter twist on creamy spaghetti.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Easy! Choose your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or pasta and prepare as directed. The sauce remains naturally gluten-free—just ensure your Parmesan is too if you’re highly sensitive.

What protein can I add to creamy spaghetti?

Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon all make fantastic additions to creamy spaghetti. For a vegetarian protein boost, stir in roasted mushrooms or chopped walnuts for extra texture and heartiness.

Can I make creamy spaghetti ahead for a party?

Creamy spaghetti is best fresh, but you can prepare the sauce a day ahead and gently reheat before tossing with freshly cooked pasta. A splash of pasta water helps restore that silky texture if the sauce thickens in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving pure comfort, please let this Creamy Spaghetti recipe be your new go-to. Invite some friends, set the table, and savor the simple joys of a classic dish made with love—you’ll be hooked on that luscious sauce and eager to make it again and again!

Creamy Spaghetti Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this delectable Creamy Spaghetti recipe. With a luxurious sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that is quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti:

12 oz (340g) spaghetti

Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the sauce: Sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil. Add heavy cream, simmer, then stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Combine: Toss cooked spaghetti in the sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken for additional flavor and protein.
For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian