Ever since I first made this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with Cream Cheese, it’s become a go-to comfort dish in my kitchen. There’s something deeply satisfying about twirling a fork into creamy, cheesy spaghetti that’s infused with the bold flavor of garlic and topped with a rich blend of cheeses. I remember the first time I tested this recipe – I was looking for a quick yet indulgent pasta dish that felt homemade but didn’t take hours to prepare. This one exceeded all expectations.
You will love this recipe for so many reasons. First, it’s the perfect fusion of creamy and savory, with a texture that’s velvety and smooth in every bite. The garlic adds just the right amount of depth and aroma, while the cream cheese gives it that irresistible richness that binds everything together. The grated parmesan adds a slightly salty finish that elevates the flavor of the whole dish. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want seconds—and maybe thirds.
What makes this recipe so versatile is its adaptability. You can serve it as a main dish or as a side. You can even toss in sautéed chicken, turkey bacon, or vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added texture and color. Whether you’re serving a weeknight family dinner or preparing a dish for guests, this spaghetti fits in effortlessly. You can easily double the batch for meal prep or freeze portions for later use.
Another reason I return to this recipe again and again is its affordability. It uses pantry-friendly ingredients that don’t cost much but deliver maximum flavor. Cream cheese, garlic, and parmesan are staples in many kitchens, and when paired with spaghetti, they create magic on a plate. Even when I’m on a tight grocery budget, I can make this meal feel like a decadent treat.
Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with Cream Cheese:
– 400g dried spaghetti
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 200g cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
– 1 cup whole milk or cooking cream
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
– Optional add-ins: cooked turkey bacon bits, grilled chicken, sautéed spinach, or mushrooms
HOW TO PREPARE THIS RECIPE
Making this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with Cream Cheese is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s one of those recipes you can whip up on a busy weeknight without compromising flavor or presentation. With just a few ingredients and minimal steps, the results are wonderfully creamy and rich. Here’s how to prepare it from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation:
1. Boil the spaghetti
Begin by filling a large pot with water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring it to a boil. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions—usually around 8 to 10 minutes—until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Reserve pasta water and drain
Before draining the spaghetti, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This water can help thin the sauce later and make it silkier. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Sauté the garlic
In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic. Stir frequently and cook the garlic for about 1 to 2 minutes until it’s fragrant but not browned. It should smell rich and inviting.
4. Add the cream cheese
Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and stir continuously until it begins to melt and blend with the butter and garlic. This may take a few minutes. Be patient—it will become creamy and smooth.
5. Stir in the milk
Slowly pour in the milk (or cooking cream), stirring constantly to combine it with the cream cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes a uniform, velvety mixture. If it looks too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Add the parmesan cheese
Next, sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese. Stir until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and rich. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
7. Combine with cooked spaghetti
Add the drained spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs or a pasta fork to toss everything together gently, making sure every strand is coated in the cheesy garlic sauce. If needed, add a little more pasta water to loosen the sauce.
8. Customize if desired
At this stage, feel free to add any extras. You can toss in cooked turkey bacon for a smoky touch, shredded rotisserie chicken for added protein, or sautéed spinach and mushrooms for a veggie twist. The sauce is creamy enough to support these variations without losing its flavor.
9. Serve and garnish
Transfer the spaghetti to plates or a serving bowl. Sprinkle with more parmesan cheese and a little chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Quick and Easy
This entire dish can be made in about 20 to 25 minutes, making it a perfect option for nights when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients cook quickly. You don’t need any special equipment—just a pot for the pasta and a pan for the sauce.
Customizable
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try serving the sauce over zucchini noodles. Want a little heat? Add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic. If you’re cooking for kids, leave out strong spices and stick to the basic creamy version—they’ll love it.
Popular with Many People
Every time I serve this dish, it disappears fast. It’s incredibly popular with friends, family, and even picky eaters. The garlic, cheese, and cream combination feels indulgent yet familiar. It’s a comfort food that appeals to almost everyone, regardless of age or background.
cheesy garlic parmesan spaghetti with cream cheese
This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with Cream Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, savory, and ready in under 30 minutes. With simple ingredients and rich flavors, it’s a weeknight-friendly meal that tastes gourmet. The garlic, cream cheese, and parmesan create a velvety sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti, making each bite irresistibly delicious.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 400g dried spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 200g cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup whole milk or cooking cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Optional: cooked turkey bacon bits, grilled chicken strips, sautéed spinach, or mushrooms
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8–10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly.
- Lower the heat and add the cream cheese. Stir continuously until it melts and blends with the butter and garlic to form a smooth base.
- Slowly pour in the milk while stirring. Continue to stir until the sauce becomes creamy and slightly thickened.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and the sauce is silky. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss in the cooked spaghetti. Mix well so the sauce evenly coats the pasta. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency.
- If using, stir in cooked turkey bacon, chicken, or vegetables of choice. Combine well.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired.
Notes
Do not let the garlic brown to avoid bitterness.
Add extra milk or pasta water if reheating leftovers to loosen the sauce.
You can add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely. While spaghetti works beautifully with the creamy sauce, you can also use linguine, fettuccine, penne, or even fusilli. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get too soft when mixed with the sauce.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can use mascarpone or ricotta for a slightly different flavor and texture. Even a thick plain Greek yogurt can work in a pinch, though it will make the sauce a bit tangier.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, cook fresh pasta and gently reheat the sauce over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen it if needed.
Is it possible to make this dish lighter?
To reduce richness, you can use low-fat cream cheese and replace whole milk with skim or plant-based milk. The flavor will remain delicious while being a bit lighter on calories.
Does it freeze well?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove.