Cheesy garlic butter spaghetti has quickly become my go-to for a reason – it’s pure comfort food in a bowl! I remember the first time I tried making it myself after having it at a friend’s house. The aroma of garlic and butter simmering together filled my kitchen, and the anticipation of that creamy, cheesy sauce coating every strand of pasta was almost unbearable. This dish is so incredibly satisfying, and I’ve found that making an easy cheesy garlic butter spaghetti version is totally achievable, even on a busy weeknight. Get ready to fall in love with this simple yet decadent pasta dish. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti
Get ready to be obsessed with this pasta dish! Here’s why it’s a winner:
- It’s incredibly quick, making it a perfect quick cheesy garlic butter spaghetti for busy evenings.
- The creamy, rich sauce is pure comfort in every bite.
- It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup for you!
- The combination of savory sausage and fresh spinach adds fantastic flavor and texture.
- It tastes like a gourmet meal but is surprisingly simple to make at home.
- Pairing it with a crisp salad and some crusty bread makes for a complete meal, and it’s especially delicious with a side of garlic butter spaghetti with parmesan.
- It’s incredibly satisfying and always a crowd-pleaser.
Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti Ingredients
Gathering these cheesy garlic butter spaghetti ingredients is the first step to a fantastic meal. I always reach for good quality ingredients to make this dish shine. Here’s what you’ll need for this simple yet delicious pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti – the backbone of our dish!
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or sweet) – choose your favorite for a savory kick.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – this is non-negotiable for that classic garlic flavor.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter – the base of our heavenly sauce.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream – for that luxurious, creamy texture we all crave.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty depth.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that irresistible melty topping.
- 3 cups fresh spinach – adds a touch of green and wilts beautifully into the sauce.
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste) – to enhance all the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper – for a little warmth.
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – if you like a little heat!
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed) – this starchy water is my secret for a silky sauce.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti
Whipping up this homemade cheesy garlic butter spaghetti is easier than you think! Follow these steps for a truly delicious meal.
- Step 1: Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your 12 oz spaghetti and cook according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Before draining, make sure to scoop out and reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water – it’s liquid gold for our sauce!
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and add your 1 lb Italian sausage. Cook this over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. You want it nice and cooked through, with some crispy bits for extra flavor.
- Step 3: Once the sausage is browned, reduce the heat to medium. Push the sausage to one side of the skillet. Add the 4 tbsp unsalted butter and the 4 cloves minced garlic to the empty side. Sauté the garlic for just about 1 minute until it’s fragrant and beautiful – be careful not to burn it!
- Step 4: Stir the cooked sausage and the garlic butter together. Pour in the 3/4 cup heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. You’ll see it start to thicken slightly, creating the base for our incredible spaghetti with cheese garlic butter sauce.
- Step 5: Stir in the 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce looks smooth and luscious. Season this dreamy sauce with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and the optional 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Step 6: Add the 3 cups fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir it into the sauce and let it wilt down, which usually takes just 1-2 minutes. The vibrant green against the creamy sauce is gorgeous!
- Step 7: Now, add the drained, cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently until every strand of pasta is coated in that glorious cheesy garlic butter sauce. If the sauce seems a bit too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Step 8: Sprinkle the 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 1-2 minutes, or just until the mozzarella is melted and gooey. Serve this amazing cheesy garlic butter spaghetti piping hot!
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti
I’ve made this pasta more times than I can count, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. They ensure you get that perfect texture and flavor every single time.
- Don’t skimp on browning the Italian sausage – those crispy bits are flavor bombs!
- Always reserve a bit of pasta water before draining. It’s the secret to getting that silky, emulsified sauce that clings perfectly.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a huge difference in how smoothly the sauce comes together. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can make your sauce a bit grainy.
- Let the pasta sit in the finished sauce for a minute or two before serving. This allows the noodles to absorb even more of that delicious garlic butter flavor.
What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti?
The magic lies in the panade – the mixture of milk and breadcrumbs, or in this case, the heavy cream and Parmesan that gets emulsified with a touch of pasta water. This creates the creamiest, most luscious sauce for the best cheesy garlic butter spaghetti. For more on emulsification techniques in cooking, you can check out resources on sauce emulsification.
Can I make Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti ahead of time?
You can cook the sausage and make the sauce base ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the spaghetti, then combine everything in a skillet and add the mozzarella to melt. This is a great tip for busy cooks, similar to how you might prepare components for baked lemon rosemary chicken.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti?
A common pitfall is overcooking the garlic, which makes it bitter. Also, remember not to overcook the spaghetti; it should be al dente as it will cook a little more in the sauce. Lastly, don’t add all the pasta water at once; add it gradually until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti
This rich and decadent pasta is a meal in itself, but a few thoughtful pairings can elevate it even further. For a truly authentic Italian-American experience, I love serving it alongside a simple, crisp Caesar salad. The cool, tangy greens cut beautifully through the creamy sauce. Another fantastic option is a side of garlic bread – because who can resist more garlic and butter? And of course, don’t forget a sprinkle of extra garlic butter spaghetti with parmesan right before serving for an extra layer of savory goodness. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to complete this delightful dish.
Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving for this delicious pasta dish. This cheesy garlic butter spaghetti is packed with flavor and satisfying ingredients.
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 610 kcal
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 960mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti
This delicious cheesy garlic butter spaghetti is fantastic for leftovers, making it a great candidate for meal prep or saving for another night. Once cooked, let the pasta cool down slightly before transferring it to airtight containers. For the best quality, I recommend storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, this dish also freezes beautifully. Pack it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and it should last for about 3 months. Proper storage-related secondary keyword practices ensure it tastes almost as good as the first time! For tips on proper food storage, you can refer to guidelines from the FDA.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. You can gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until heated through, stirring halfway. Both methods work wonderfully to bring back that creamy, cheesy goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti
What makes this Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti so creamy?
The creaminess comes from a few key players! The heavy cream provides a rich base, while the grated Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, creating a luscious, emulsified texture. A little bit of reserved pasta water also helps bind everything together beautifully, ensuring a smooth and luxurious finish for your cheesy garlic butter spaghetti.
Can I add other vegetables besides spinach?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your cheesy garlic butter spaghetti. Roasted broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, or even some sun-dried tomatoes would be delicious additions. Just make sure to cook any denser vegetables before adding them to the sauce so they are tender. If you enjoy cooking with vegetables, you might also like this vegetable zucchini fritters recipe.
How do I make cheesy garlic butter spaghetti without sausage?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian version or simply don’t have sausage on hand, you can easily omit it. Simply sauté the garlic in the butter as directed, then proceed with adding the cream and cheeses. You could also add some sautéed mushrooms or even some pan-fried halloumi cheese for a savory element.
Is it difficult to learn how to make cheesy garlic butter spaghetti?
Not at all! Following the steps I’ve outlined makes it surprisingly straightforward. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. Once you’ve made it once, you’ll see just how easy it is to whip up this fantastic dish, and you’ll be a pro at how to make cheesy garlic butter spaghetti in no time! It’s as satisfying as making crispy parmesan chicken bites.
Variations of Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti You Can Try
While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with variations to keep things exciting! You can easily adapt this cheesy garlic butter spaghetti to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas I’ve tried that are absolutely delicious.
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or even some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. The garlic butter sauce is so rich, you won’t miss the meat!
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, double the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce. This turns it into a wonderfully spicy cheesy garlic butter pasta.
- Creamy Dream: For an extra luxurious and creamy cheesy garlic butter spaghetti experience, stir in a dollop of cream cheese along with the heavy cream. It adds another layer of velvety richness.
- Lemon Zest Brightness: A little zest from half a lemon stirred in at the very end can add a surprising brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference!
Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti: 1 Amazing Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and comforting Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage & Spinach. This dish features a creamy garlic butter sauce coating tender spaghetti, layered with savory Italian sausage and wilted spinach, all topped with melted mozzarella. It’s a quick, one-pan meal perfect for weeknights or impressing guests.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or sweet)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it browns. Cook until fully done and slightly crispy.
- Reduce heat to medium. Push sausage to the side and add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir sausage and garlic butter together, then add heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Stir in the spinach and let it wilt into the sauce, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, cover with a lid, and let melt for 1-2 minutes. Serve hot and creamy.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest, creamiest melt.
- Don’t skip browning the sausage; it adds depth and flavor to the whole dish.
- Reserve pasta water before draining; it’s a secret weapon for perfect sauce consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 610 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg