There’s something undeniably comforting about a big bowl of cheesy spaghetti. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with flavors that warm your soul. This recipe for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with Cream Cheese and Tomato Sauce takes a classic pasta dish and adds a velvety twist with cream cheese and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. The result? A rich, creamy sauce that hugs every strand of spaghetti, elevated by the tangy tomato sauce and the aromatic notes of garlic and oregano.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short but your craving for comfort food is high. It’s also a crowd-pleaser that works beautifully for potlucks or family gatherings. Plus, the recipe is adaptable, making it a go-to for all types of home cooks, whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking to experiment with a twist.

So, grab a fork and let’s dive into this creamy, cheesy masterpiece!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For this recipe, you’ll need simple ingredients that combine to create bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll gather:

12 oz spaghetti – Classic pasta that’s perfect for soaking up the creamy tomato sauce.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the garlic and adding a subtle richness.
4 cloves garlic, minced – The star flavor that gives this dish its fragrant kick.
1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce – A smooth and tangy base for the sauce.
4 oz cream cheese, softened – The creamy component that makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, cheesy depth to the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – A hint of earthy Italian flavor.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who like a touch of heat.
Salt and pepper, to taste – To balance and enhance all the flavors.
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped – For garnish, adding a bright and fresh finish.

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti, as you may need it to thin the sauce later.
Set the drained spaghetti aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Sauce

Pour the can of tomato sauce into the skillet with the garlic. Stir in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using). Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes over medium heat so the flavors can meld together.

Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese and Parmesan

Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the tomato sauce. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce turns creamy.
Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring, allowing it to melt and blend into the sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine the Spaghetti and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to coat every strand in the creamy tomato sauce. Use tongs or a large spoon to ensure the sauce evenly covers the pasta.
Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the cheesy garlic Parmesan spaghetti to serving plates or bowls.
Garnish with freshly chopped basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Serve immediately while the sauce is creamy and the spaghetti is still hot.

Variations:

This recipe is versatile, so you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed sausage. Cook the protein separately and toss it into the pasta at the end.
Vegetarian Twist: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and texture.
Spice It Up: Amp up the heat by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a drizzle of chili oil before serving.
Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta instead of traditional spaghetti. Rice or chickpea pasta works particularly well with this sauce.
Lighter Version: Swap the cream cheese for a lower-fat version or use Greek yogurt for a creamy but tangy alternative.

Cooking Notes:

Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it and stir often to avoid burning. Burnt garlic can overpower the dish with a bitter flavor.
Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Add the water gradually while stirring to maintain a creamy consistency.
Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded options. Avoid using powdered Parmesan for the best results.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better when tossed in sauce and ensures a perfect texture in every bite.

Serving Suggestions:

This cheesy garlic Parmesan spaghetti is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with sides and beverages:

Sides: Serve with a side of garlic bread or warm crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Beverages: Pair this dish with sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon works perfectly.
Additions: If you’re serving this dish for guests, consider garnishing with extra Parmesan shavings, fresh basil leaves, or even a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.

Tips:

Reheat Like a Pro: Leftovers can be reheated on the stove with a splash of milk or pasta water to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the pasta.
Meal Prep: Cook the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently while boiling fresh pasta for a quick meal.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended, as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed.
Make It Fancy: If you want to elevate the dish for a special occasion, serve it with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for a nice crunch.

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 650mg

Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

FAQs:

1. Can I use other pasta shapes for this recipe?
Yes! While spaghetti works beautifully, you can substitute it with linguine, fettuccine, or even penne.

2. How do I make this dish spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for a fiery kick.

3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomato sauce?
Absolutely! Blend 4-5 ripe tomatoes into a smooth puree and cook it down for a few extra minutes to thicken the sauce.

4. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone, ricotta, or even a few tablespoons of heavy cream for a lighter version.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a bit of milk when reheating to restore the creamy texture.

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti with Cream Cheese and Tomato Sauce is the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with robust flavors, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Whether you’re serving it as a standalone meal or pairing it with sides, this recipe promises to impress every time.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to this mouthwatering Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti pasta. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments and explore more irresistible recipes right here!

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

Author: Imili Johnson
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 1x

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Ingredients

Scale

12 oz spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions