Save A rich and satisfying pasta dish featuring a trio of cheeses, perfect for a comforting meal thats easy on the budget.
I first made this creamy spaghetti on a chilly evening when I was craving something warm and cheesy. It instantly became a favorite in my home for its richness and simplicity.
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 Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Prepare Sauce Base:
- While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
- Add Dairy:
- Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Add Cheeses:
- Gradually add the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
- Season Sauce:
- Season the sauce with black pepper, nutmeg (if using), and salt to taste.
- Toss Pasta:
- Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Save Sharing this dish with my family always brings smiles around the table. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a comforting favorite for everyone.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, colander, wooden spoon or spatula, grater
Allergen Information
Contains milk (dairy) and wheat (gluten). May contain lactose depending on cheese selection. Always double-check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 535, Total Fat: 24 g, Carbohydrates: 60 g, Protein: 21 g (per serving)
Save Enjoy this creamy three-cheese spaghetti as a cozy meal any night of the week—it pairs deliciously with a salad or garlic bread.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cheeses work best for this dish?
Mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar create a balanced creamy blend, though Gruyère, Fontina, or Gouda can be delicious substitutes.
- → How do I achieve a creamy sauce consistency?
Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed while tossing the spaghetti, ensuring the sauce clings smoothly.
- → Can I add extra flavor to the sauce?
Yes, adding red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavor profile nicely.
- → What cooking tools are needed?
A large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for melting cheeses and sauce, a colander to drain, and a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it contains no meat and relies on dairy and pasta ingredients, perfect for a vegetarian diet.
- → How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation plus cooking time totals about 25 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal option.