Creamy Three-Cheese Spaghetti

Creamy Three-Cheese Spaghetti: A Comfort Food Classic

Picture a steaming bowl of spaghetti, enveloped in a luscious, creamy cheese sauce that clings to every noodle, whispering of comfort and indulgence. Our Creamy Three-Cheese Spaghetti is not just another pasta dish; it’s a sentimental journey that transports you back to cherished family dinners and cozy evenings in. The combination of rich cheeses—melted and gooey—creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish is kid-friendly, satisfying, and worth every moment spent savoring.

What’s Your Favorite Cheese-Spaghetti Combo?

Can you recall the last time you twirled your fork around perfectly cooked spaghetti, delighting in the creamy, cheesy goodness? What if you could replicate that blissful moment with just a few simple ingredients? Creamy Three-Cheese Spaghetti isn’t just a meal; it’s a memory in the making, ready to satisfy your cravings and the cravings of those you love. Are you ready to indulge in a dish that could easily become your go-to comfort food?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick Prep Time: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it a breeze to whip up on busy weeknights.

2. Kid Friendly: The creamy, cheesy goodness appeals to even the pickiest eaters.

3. Indulgent and Satisfying: Each bite is a rich explosion of flavors, making it perfect for any occasion.

4. Minimal Ingredients for Maximum Flavor: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dish.

5. Versatile Base: Add your favorite protein or veggies to customize and make it your own.

Ingredients

• 12 oz. spaghetti: The perfect base for your creamy masterpiece, spaghetti entices with its familiar texture and flavor.

• 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a smooth richness to the sauce while enhancing the overall flavor.

• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fragrant aroma that elevates the dish with its savory notes.

• 3/4 cup heavy cream: Supplies the essential creaminess, creating a silky sauce that clings to every noodle.

• 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth: This adds depth of flavor while still keeping things light.

• 1 1/4 cups shredded Italian three-cheese blend: The star of the show, this trio melts beautifully for a gooey, indulgent experience.

• Kosher salt: Balances the flavors and elevates the dish to divine levels.

• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and sophistication.

• 2 Tbsp. thinly sliced chives: This peppery herb brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

• Finely grated Parmesan, for serving: A finishing touch that adds a delightful salty complexity.

• Finely chopped fresh parsley, for serving: Brightens the dish with a fresh contrast both in color and taste.

Timing

This Creamy Three-Cheese Spaghetti is ready in about 20 minutes. It’s the perfect balance of fast and indulgent; just enough time to boil the pasta and whip up a dreamy sauce. Even on the busiest days, you’ll find that this dish doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction, making it remarkable for those evenings that call for something rich and comforting yet don’t offer the luxury of time.

Step-by-Step

1. Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot filled with boiling salted water, add the spaghetti and stir occasionally. Cook until al dente, as directed on the package.

2. Reserve Pasta Water: Before you drain the spaghetti, reserve about one cup of the starchy pasta water, which will help thicken the sauce and ensure it adheres to the noodles beautifully.

3. Make the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and observe as it turns fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth. Stir well, allowing it to combine with the garlic, followed by a few splashes of the reserved pasta water.

5. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it gently to fully coat the noodles in the creamy sauce as it begins to simmer.

6. Incorporate Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded Italian three-cheese blend while tossing constantly. The sauce will become gooey and clingy. If it appears too thick, add more reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.

7. Season and Garnish: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Finish with thinly sliced chives and generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley before serving.

At this point, you’ll be standing in the kitchen, marveling at the gooey, dripping beauty before you, ready to twirl up that first glorious bite.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this Creamy Three-Cheese Spaghetti contains approximately 600 calories. The luscious sauces and rich cheeses offer a delightful indulgence, perfect for those days when comfort food is a must. While it’s certainly not a daily indulgence, enjoying it occasionally won’t hurt; every bite will feel like a welcoming hug for your taste buds.

Healthier Alternatives

For a lighter version of this recipe, consider substituting low-fat cream or plant-based options such as unsweetened almond milk and vegan cheese. Zucchini noodles can replace traditional spaghetti for a low-carb option without sacrificing satisfaction. With simple swaps, you can enjoy the same comforting flavors while staying aligned with your health goals.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Three-Cheese Spaghetti could be the star of your dinner table, paired with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping. Picture family gatherings where this dish takes center stage, or serve it alongside a scoop of homemade, creamy ice cream for a dessert-forward evening. Its versatility is astounding, and its indulgence can elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

Common Mistakes

1. Overcooked Spaghetti: It’s crucial to watch your pasta closely. Overcooking leads to a mushy texture.

2. Lumpy Sauce: Ensure your cheese is grated finely, allowing for an even melt without lumps.

3. Too Much Pasta Water: Be cautious not to add too much reserved pasta water, as you want a creamy sauce, not a soupy one.

4. Neglecting Seasoning: Flavor enhances the dish, so don’t skip out on salt and pepper!

5. Not Tossing Thoroughly: Tossing continuously helps the cheese blend beautifully into the sauce and prevents clumping.

Storing Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, you can easily store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for a creamy treat whenever the craving strikes. When reheating, gently warm on the stove, adding a splash of milk or water to revive that creamy texture, ensuring each bite remains indulgent and satisfying.

Tempted to Make It ASAP?

Creamy Three-Cheese Spaghetti is more than just food; it’s a comforting embrace served in a bowl, destined to become a cherished addition to your family’s recipe collection. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, don your apron, and let this dish take you on a flavorful journey. Each creamy bite is waiting to create new memories and warmth in your home. It’s the kind of meal that makes everything feel just a little bit better—so get cooking!

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, but aim for a blend that melts well.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply switch out the chicken broth for vegetable broth.

3. How do I reheat leftovers without losing the creaminess?
Reheat in a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers work beautifully for added flavor and nutrition.

5. How can I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a zesty kick!

Indulge in the delightful experience of making and enjoying this Creamy Three-Cheese Spaghetti; the warmth and richness of this classic will thrill you!

Creamy Three-Cheese Spaghetti

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

A comforting and indulgent spaghetti dish enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz. spaghetti
• 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/4 cups shredded Italian three-cheese blend
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 Tbsp. thinly sliced chives
• Finely grated Parmesan, for serving
• Finely chopped fresh parsley, for serving

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Instructions

1. In a large pot filled with boiling salted water, add the spaghetti and cook until al dente.
2. Before draining, reserve about one cup of starchy pasta water.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
4. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well and adding splashes of reserved pasta water.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese, adding more pasta water if needed.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with chives, Parmesan, and parsley before serving.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream or plant-based options. Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg