Ah, Cream Cheese Spaghetti — a rich, creamy twist on classic spaghetti that’s indulgent, comforting, and surprisingly simple! 🍝🧀 Here’s a detailed guide:
🍝 Cream Cheese Spaghetti
(Serves 2–3)
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk or heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Make the cream sauce:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (~1 minute).
- Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Gradually add milk or cream, whisking until the sauce is creamy.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese if using, and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine pasta and sauce:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve:
- Plate the creamy spaghetti and top with fresh herbs, extra Parmesan, or optional protein/vegetables.
🌟 Tips & Variations
- Extra creamy: Use half-and-half or full-fat cream for a richer sauce.
- Flavor boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, or garlic powder.
- Protein options: Sautéed chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon pairs wonderfully.
- Vegetable options: Spinach, mushrooms, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes add color and nutrition.
I can also give a one-pot, super-easy Cream Cheese Spaghetti recipe where the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, making it ultra creamy and faster to make.
Do you want me to give that version?
