Creamy Three-Cheese Spaghetti

A rich and satisfying pasta dish featuring a trio of cheeses, perfect for a comforting meal thats easy on the budget.

I first made this creamy three-cheese spaghetti for a relaxed family dinner when we were seeking something filling yet simple. The way the cheeses melt together creates such a luxurious texture that even picky eaters love it.

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

Cook the Spaghetti:

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 the Sauce:

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.

Add Dairy:

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:

Season the sauce with black pepper, nutmeg (if using), and salt to taste.

Combine:

Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.

Serve:

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Pin

Nothing brings my family together quite like this three-cheese spaghetti. Watching everyone savor their plates and come back for seconds is such a rewarding sight.

Required Tools

Large pot, large skillet, colander, wooden spoon or spatula, and a grater make preparation simple and straightforward.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 535, Total Fat: 24 g, Carbohydrates: 60 g, Protein: 21 g

Serving Suggestions

Pairs nicely with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.

Pin

This creamy, satisfying pasta is sure to become a family favorite for busy weeknights. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Recipe Q&A

→ What types of cheese are used in this dish?

Mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses are combined to create a creamy and flavorful sauce.

→ How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Reserve some pasta cooking water and add it gradually while mixing to reach a smooth, creamy consistency.

→ Can I add other ingredients for extra flavor?

Yes, options like red pepper flakes, lemon juice, cooked chicken, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms complement the dish well.

→ What is the best way to cook the pasta for this dish?

Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente, then quickly drain, reserving some pasta water for the sauce.

→ Which herbs work well as garnish?

Fresh chopped parsley adds a bright, fresh note when sprinkled on top just before serving.