This dish is a symphony of flavors—imagine velvety strands of spaghetti twirling around your fork like they’re performing a dance number just for you. The intoxicating aroma of roasted garlic mingles with the sharpness of parmesan and the delightful tang of cream cheese, creating an irresistible invitation to dig in. You might even hear them whisper, “Eat me!” as they beckon from the plate.

I remember the first time I made this cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti and cream cheese for my friends during a cozy movie night. With every bite, their eyes lit up like Christmas lights. It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy—perfect for those nights when you need a hug in the form of pasta!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- Its rich flavors create a satisfying meal that everyone will love
- The inviting aroma fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort
- Versatile enough to pair with grilled chicken or veggies for extra flair
One evening, I served this at a gathering, and my friends proclaimed me the “Pasta Queen” forevermore.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Use high-quality durum wheat pasta; it holds sauces beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves provide an aromatic kick; avoid pre-minced versions.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan for maximum flavor; it melts better than pre-packaged.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds richness; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over saltiness; use it to sauté garlic.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper enhances flavor; don’t skip this essential seasoning.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also freshness to the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Spaghetti: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add your spaghetti once boiling and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Sauté the Garlic: While your pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes—being careful not to let it brown.
Create the Sauce Base: Lower the heat and add softened cream cheese to your skillet. Stir until melted and smooth before adding grated parmesan cheese gradually while mixing thoroughly.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain your cooked spaghetti and reserve some pasta water. Toss the hot pasta into the skillet with sauce while adding reserved water as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
Season and Garnish: Finally, sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper over your creation along with chopped parsley for color. Mix gently to combine all flavors beautifully.
Indulging in this cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti and cream cheese is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket after being outside in winter! You will never want to eat plain old pasta again after tasting this!
Enjoy making this delightful dish! Your friends will surely crown you as their new culinary hero after just one bite!
You Must Know
- Cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti and cream cheese creates a comforting dish that’s creamy, savory, and irresistible
- This recipe is easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- The aromatic garlic fills your kitchen with warmth and anticipation
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the spaghetti first while sautéing garlic in butter. This keeps everything warm and ready for the creamy sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular pasta for whole grain or gluten-free options. Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance flavor, use freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-packaged cheese
- This small change makes a big difference in taste
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente texture elevates the overall dish quality
- Experiment with herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness
Sharing a memorable moment when I made this cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti for friends led to spontaneous karaoke—who knew comfort food could ignite such joy?
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese in this dish?
Absolutely! Mozzarella or cheddar can add a delightful twist to the flavor profile.
What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking?
Make sure to stir it occasionally while cooking and add a bit of olive oil.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
Add red pepper flakes during cooking for a flavorful kick that complements the creaminess beautifully.

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the richness of cream cheese with the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Ingredients
- Spaghetti
- Fresh garlic
- Grated parmesan cheese
- Cream cheese
- Unsalted butter
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- 1. Cook spaghetti: Boil salted water in a large pot, add spaghetti, and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- 2. Sauté garlic: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3. Create sauce: Lower heat and stir in softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in grated parmesan cheese.
- 4. Combine pasta and sauce: Drain spaghetti, reserving some pasta water. Toss hot spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce, adding reserved water as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
- 5. Season and garnish: Sprinkle with black pepper and chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg