Save to Pinterest A rich and satisfying pasta dish featuring a trio of cheeses, perfect for a comforting meal thats easy on the budget.
I remember making this creamy three-cheese spaghetti on a chilly evening when we needed something cozy but fast. The blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar was an instant family favorite in our kitchen.
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
- Boil 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.
- Make Garlic Butter 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.
- Create Sauce:
- 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.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest This creamy pasta reminds me of big family dinners when everyone gathered around craving seconds and no one ever went hungry.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, colander, wooden spoon or spatula, grater
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (dairy), Wheat (gluten). May contain: Lactose, depending on cheese selection.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 535, Total Fat: 24 g, Carbohydrates: 60 g, Protein: 21 g per serving
Save to Pinterest Serve this three-cheese spaghetti as a comforting main dish along with salad and garlic bread. Everyone will want seconds!
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheeses are best for the sauce?
Mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar provide a creamy, balanced flavor, but Gruyère, Fontina, or Gouda can be great alternatives.
- → How do I achieve the perfect sauce consistency?
Reserve some pasta water and add gradually to the cheese sauce while tossing pasta to create a silky, creamy texture.
- → Can I add protein to this pasta?
Yes, cooked chicken, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms can be stirred in for extra protein and flavor.
- → Is garlic necessary in the sauce?
Garlic adds a fragrant base to the sauce, sautéed briefly in butter to enhance depth without overpowering.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Freshly chopped parsley adds brightness, and a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance flavors.