Save A rich and satisfying pasta dish featuring a trio of cheeses, perfect for a comforting meal thats easy on the budget.
This recipe is a staple in my house when we crave comfort food but want something speedy. The combination of cheeses creates a luscious sauce that coats each strand of spaghetti beautifully.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) dried spaghetti, 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)
- Dairy: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 200 ml (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) whole milk, 100 ml (1/3 cup + 1 tbsp) heavy cream, 80 g (3/4 cup) grated mozzarella, 60 g (2/3 cup) grated Parmesan, 60 g (2/3 cup) grated cheddar
- Seasonings: 1 clove garlic, finely minced, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional), Salt, to taste
- Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain.
- Make the garlic butter sauce:
- While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the cream base:
- Stir in milk and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Add the cheeses:
- Gradually add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce:
- Season with black pepper, nutmeg if using, and salt to taste.
- Finish and serve:
- Add drained spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water to stabilize creaminess. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Save My kids always request this spaghetti on chilly evenings. Its become our go-to for cozy family dinners, especially when we all need a little extra comfort.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, colander, wooden spoon or spatula, and a grater are all you need to whip up this creamy pasta in no time.
Nutritional Information
Each serving clocks in at around 535 calories with 24 g of fat, 60 g of carbohydrates, and 21 g of protein.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad and some warm garlic bread for a complete meal.
Save This creamy three-cheese spaghetti is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy its velvety richness fresh from the stove with your loved ones.
Recipe Guide
- → What cheeses are best for this dish?
Mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses create a balanced creamy flavor and smooth texture. Gruyère, Fontina, or Gouda can also be used as alternatives.
- → How can I make the sauce creamier?
Adding reserved pasta water gradually helps loosen the sauce and creates a perfectly creamy consistency that coats the spaghetti evenly.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh to preserve the creamy texture, but leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of milk to restore smoothness.
- → What optional seasonings enhance the flavor?
Black pepper adds a mild heat, while nutmeg provides a subtle warmth. Red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice can add bright or spicy notes.
- → How can I add protein to this dish?
Incorporate cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for added protein and depth without overwhelming the cheese sauce.