Creamy Spaghetti Recipe

If ever there was a dish that wraps you up in comfort and has your taste buds singing, it’s creamy spaghetti. Velvety smooth sauce coats perfectly cooked noodles, with hints of garlic, Parmesan, and just enough pepper to give it a little personality. Every forkful feels like a warm hug, and the best part? It’s quick enough for busy weeknights, but luxurious enough to serve guests. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy evening in, creamy spaghetti always delivers the kind of joy that only a tried-and-true comfort food can.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how this handful of everyday ingredients transforms into a show-stopping meal. Every item adds its own magic, from the silkiness of cream to the sharpness of Parmesan and the subtle lift of fresh parsley on top. Don’t overlook the little touches—they each play a big part in creating the ultimate creamy spaghetti experience.

• Spaghetti (12 ounces): The classic base; it captures every bit of creamy sauce in each twirl.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps create a silky roux for the sauce.
• Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Infuses the sauce with warm, savory depth—don’t skimp!
• All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Thickens the sauce so it clings to every noodle.
• Whole milk (1 cup): Lends a lighter creaminess and balances the richness.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret to luscious, decadent texture—truly the heart of creamy spaghetti.
• Parmesan cheese, grated (¾ cup): Melts into the sauce to add salty, nutty flavor.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Brings out every flavor in the dish.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives a gentle, peppery hint that complements the creaminess.
• Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): For a subtle kick—add as much or as little as you like.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): Finishes the dish with vibrant color and fresh flavor.

How to Make Creamy Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then drop in the spaghetti. Stir occasionally and cook until it’s just al dente—tender but with a little bite. Don’t forget to scoop out about half a cup of that starchy pasta water just before draining; this liquid gold will help adjust the consistency of your creamy sauce later. Drain the noodles and set them aside, ready for their creamy transformation.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter

In a roomy skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Toss in the minced garlic and let it gently sizzle for 1 to 2 minutes, until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden at the edges. This is where the foundation of your creamy spaghetti’s signature flavor begins, so don’t rush this step.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and use a whisk or wooden spoon to stir constantly for about a minute. You want the flour to disappear into the butter and garlic, thickening just enough to form a smooth paste. This no-fuss roux is what will give your sauce the perfect luxurious texture without lumps.

Step 4: Add Cream and Milk

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking all the while. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer—keep it just below a boil—and let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes. Watch as it thickens slightly, becoming the dreamy base that defines creamy spaghetti.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese and Season

Add in the grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like things zippy. Stir patiently until the cheese melts into the sauce, turning it smooth and glossy. Taste and tweak the seasoning if needed—the sauce should be absolutely irresistible at this point!

Step 6: Toss the Pasta and Finish

Gently add your drained spaghetti into the pan, tossing until every strand is luxuriously coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning. Right before serving, shower the pasta with chopped fresh parsley to add a fresh, herbal note. Creamy spaghetti is best enjoyed straight from the pan, steaming and gorgeous.

How to Serve Creamy Spaghetti

Garnishes

To make your creamy spaghetti extra special, garnish generously with more grated Parmesan and a sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley. For a bit of heat, dust on a pinch of extra red pepper flakes. Even a simple crack of fresh black pepper over the top brings a little drama and flavor. Don’t be shy—these finishing touches truly elevate the whole experience!

Side Dishes

There’s nothing better than pairing creamy spaghetti with something fresh and crisp. A simple green salad with a lemony vinaigrette or a plate of roasted vegetables is a great choice. If you want to keep it classic, serve alongside warm, crusty bread perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce. The contrast makes every bite more satisfying!

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with presentation by twirling individual servings into neat nests using a carving fork or tongs. Serve creamy spaghetti in wide, shallow bowls to show off the creamy sauce. For dinner parties, top each plate with a few sautéed shrimp, sliced grilled chicken, or roasted mushrooms for a gourmet touch that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftover creamy spaghetti, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may firm up a little as it cools, but don’t worry—it will become luscious again with gentle reheating.

Freezing

While creamy spaghetti is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it in a pinch. Place completely cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. Keep in mind, creamy sauces may separate after freezing, but a good stir and splash of milk when reheating should help bring it back together.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta and warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy again. Avoid microwaving on high heat, as it can cause the sauce to break. Take it easy and your creamy spaghetti will taste just as delightful as when you first made it.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While classic spaghetti is perfect for this dish, creamy spaghetti sauce clings beautifully to fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or your favorite pasta shape. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and keep that sauce-coating magic going.

What can I add for extra protein?

For a heartier meal, toss in cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even some roasted mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. The creamy spaghetti base pairs well with so many proteins and turns this comfort food into a complete and satisfying dinner.

Can I make this dish lighter?

If you want a slightly lighter creamy spaghetti, swap out the heavy cream and milk for an equal amount of half-and-half. You’ll still get plenty of silkiness, but with fewer calories and a lighter feel overall.

What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from getting lumpy?

Whisk constantly as you add the milk and cream to the roux, making sure to pour slowly. This keeps the sauce smooth. If you notice lumps forming, a quick whisk or even a hand blender will give you that perfectly creamy texture every time.

Can I make creamy spaghetti ahead of time?

You can make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge, then cook fresh spaghetti before serving. When you’re ready, simply reheat the sauce gently and toss with hot pasta for the creamiest results. This is a life-saver for dinner parties or busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

If you’re hungry for a timeless comfort dish that’s both quick and soul-satisfying, don’t wait another minute to try creamy spaghetti. It’s a recipe that deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation and is sure to make you smile with every bite. Give it a try and fall in love with its creamy, garlicky goodness—your table will thank you!

Print