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 the first time I made this creamy three-cheese spaghetti for a friends get-together. Everyone loved the silky sauce and cheesy flavor, and it quickly became our go-to comfort meal for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g dried spaghetti, 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)
- Dairy: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 200 ml whole milk, 100 ml heavy cream, 80 g grated mozzarella, 60 g grated Parmesan, 60 g 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
- Cook 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.
- Prepare Sauce Base:
- While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
- Add Dairy:
- Stir in milk and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Melt Cheese:
- Gradually add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
- Season:
- Season sauce with black pepper, nutmeg (if using), and salt to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add drained spaghetti to sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve creamy consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest My family requests this spaghetti often, especially when we want something comforting and filling. It always brings us together at the dinner table for easy conversation and laughter.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, colander, wooden spoon or spatula, grater
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice. Substitute cheeses as needed: Gruyère, Fontina, or Gouda work well. For protein, stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms. Pairs nicely with a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 535, Total Fat: 24 g, Carbohydrates: 60 g, Protein: 21 g per serving
Save to Pinterest Enjoy your creamy three-cheese spaghetti while warm and fresh. This dish is sure to satisfy cheesy pasta cravings and bring smiles all around the table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheeses are used in this dish?
Mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses are combined to create the creamy sauce.
- → How can I achieve a smooth, creamy sauce?
Stir the cheeses gradually into warm milk and cream while mixing constantly. Adding reserved pasta water helps adjust consistency.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses?
Yes, alternatives like Gruyère, Fontina, or Gouda work well and offer unique flavors.
- → How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with 15 minutes for cooking, totaling roughly 25 minutes.
- → Are there optional ingredients for extra flavor?
A pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the flavor. Fresh parsley adds a bright garnish.