If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, Creamy Spaghetti absolutely delivers. This irresistible spin on classic spaghetti is all about silky, luscious sauce clinging to every strand, bright pops of Parmesan, and the cozy perfume of garlic and Italian herbs. Whether you’re a comfort food devotee or simply want to make your weeknight dinner a whole lot more special, this Creamy Spaghetti will have you reaching for seconds—and maybe even battling over the last bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s celebrate the beauty of simplicity! Each ingredient in this Creamy Spaghetti recipe is carefully chosen to build creamy richness, subtle flavor, and that signature ultra-satisfying texture. Gather these basics, and you’re halfway to pasta greatness.
- Spaghetti (12 oz): Classic strands are perfect for soaking up our creamy sauce—cook until beautifully al dente for best results.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a mellow base flavor and helps your garlic sizzle without burning.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): The hero of this dish, infusing the sauce with fragrant, irresistible warmth.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps create a light roux, thickening the sauce to creamy perfection.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Gives the sauce its body and richness, plus a sweet undertone.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): The secret to ultimate creaminess—you can use half-and-half for a lighter touch.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for bringing out the bright savory notes of the cheese and sauce.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just the right kick without overpowering the delicate sauce.
- Italian seasoning (½ teaspoon): A blend of herbs gives each bite subtle garden-fresh flavor.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (½ cup): The salty, nutty backbone that melts right into your creamy sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons, optional): Brings a touch of color and a fresh herbal finish.
How to Make Creamy Spaghetti
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and drop in your spaghetti. Stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick, and cook until it’s just shy of al dente according to the package directions. Drain the spaghetti well, reserving a little pasta water just in case your sauce needs loosening, and set the noodles aside. This step ensures your Creamy Spaghetti has the perfect bite and can soak up every ounce of sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium. Add your minced garlic and let it gently sizzle for about a minute. Don’t rush—this is where all that sweet, mellow depth begins. When your kitchen fills with the scent of golden garlic, you’re ready to move on.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle in the flour, whisking so it absorbs that garlicky oil and forms a light, bubbling paste (the roux). Let this cook, stirring, for another minute. This quick step is key to a Creamy Spaghetti sauce that thickens up nicely without tasting floury.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Now the magic happens: Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until your sauce is smooth and lump-free. Let it simmer gently for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often. Watch as it thickens just enough to cling to your spoon. The sauce should be velvety and ready for its flavor boost.
Step 5: Season and Add Cheese
Season your sauce with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the grated Parmesan, letting it melt right in. You’ll see the creamy transformation happen before your eyes—rich, glossy, and temptingly aromatic. If you love your Creamy Spaghetti extra cheesy, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in a little more Parm!
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Add the cooked spaghetti to your skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated and there’s no noodle left behind. If your sauce becomes too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water is all it takes for that silky finish. Plate it up warm, top with parsley if you like, and get ready to dive into creamy pasta bliss.
How to Serve Creamy Spaghetti
Garnishes
A final flourish can take your Creamy Spaghetti from delicious to downright stunning. I love showering mine with fresh chopped parsley for a bright pop of color and garden-fresh flavor. You might also add a little extra grated Parmesan or a twist of freshly ground black pepper. For a dash of excitement, try a pinch of red pepper flakes!
Side Dishes
Creamy Spaghetti is a star on its own, but it’s also wonderfully flexible alongside a simple green salad, garlicky sautéed spinach, or classic garlic bread. Crusty bread is perfect for sopping up every trace of your garlicky, creamy sauce! For heartier appetites, grilled chicken or shrimp makes a lovely protein pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving Creamy Spaghetti for a special occasion, swirl a nest of pasta on each plate and top with extra cheese and herbs. Or, try serving in mini bowls or ramekins as a part of a pasta tasting menu. You can also pack leftovers into jars for an Instagram-worthy lunch on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Spaghetti stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but a quick splash of milk when reheating will revive that creamy texture.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze Creamy Spaghetti, let it cool completely first. Portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that cream-based sauces can sometimes change texture, but an energetic stir when reheated brightens everything up again.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm Creamy Spaghetti on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a slash of milk or even a spoonful of heavy cream, stirring occasionally until the sauce returns to its ideal creamy state. Be patient and stir slowly to prevent the sauce from separating.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Spaghetti gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free spaghetti and choose a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux. Everything else remains the same, so you’ll still get that dreamy, creamy texture.
How can I add protein to this pasta?
This recipe welcomes add-ins! Stir in cooked, sliced chicken breast, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu for delicious protein options that meld beautifully with the creamy sauce.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
No worries! Substitute half-and-half for a slightly lighter sauce. You can also use all whole milk, though the final result may be a bit less rich. For a dairy-free version, unsweetened almond milk and vegan Parmesan work in a pinch.
How do I prevent the creamy sauce from clumping or getting too thick?
The key is to add your milk and cream slowly while whisking constantly, and to keep the heat at medium-low. If your sauce thickens too much after adding the spaghetti, just loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water or a bit more milk.
Can Creamy Spaghetti be made ahead for entertaining?
Yes! Prepare the pasta and sauce separately a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce, toss with freshly reheated spaghetti, sprinkle on fresh herbs, and enjoy a stress-free, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Final Thoughts
If you adore food that feels cozy, creamy, and a little bit special, Creamy Spaghetti might just become your go-to recipe. It’s one of those dishes that wins hearts at family dinners, date nights, and everything in between. Give it a try—there’s nothing like twirling a forkful of velvety pasta and savoring every cheesy, garlicky bite!
Print
Creamy Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this delectable Creamy Spaghetti recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is a delightful combination of pasta, garlic, and a rich, velvety sauce.
Ingredients
Spaghetti:
- 12 oz spaghetti
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil. Add flour, then gradually whisk in milk and cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Finish the dish: Stir in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan. Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce, toss to coat. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For extra protein, add cooked chicken or shrimp.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
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