Cheesy spaghetti is a beloved dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. This creamy pasta dish combines the delightful flavors of cheese, butter, and a touch of seasoning to elevate your dining experience. Ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in, cheesy spaghetti is quick to prepare and can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering meal.
Why We Love This Cheesy Spaghetti Recipe
There’s something irresistibly comforting about cheesy spaghetti that makes it a favorite among all age groups. The creamy texture, combined with the rich flavors of melted cheese, creates a dish that feels both indulgent and familiar. In addition to being incredibly delicious, this recipe is also versatile. You can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Plus, with simple ingredients and straightforward preparations, you can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
Ingredients for Cheesy Spaghetti
To make your cheesy spaghetti, gather the following ingredients:
- 14 ounces spaghetti
- 1 cup pasta water
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 (8-ounce) package freshly shredded medium Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese for topping
How to Make Cheesy Spaghetti Directions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking!
- Start by filling a large pot with 12 cups of water and bringing it to a boil over high heat. Once the water is bubbling, add 1 tablespoon of salt and carefully drop in the spaghetti. Follow the package cooking instructions but subtract one minute to ensure your pasta is al dente.
- As your spaghetti cooks, it’s time to add the peas. In the last minute of cooking, toss the frozen peas into the pot, allowing them to heat through along with the pasta.
- Before draining the spaghetti, remember to scoop out 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This reserved water is essential for creating the creamy sauce later. After gathering the pasta water, drain the spaghetti in a colander and give it a slight shake to get rid of excess water.
- Now, let’s move on to making the cheesy sauce. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of flour. Whisk continually until the mixture is smooth, which should take about a minute.
- Gradually pour in 1 cup of whole milk while whisking briskly to combine. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens to a creamy sauce. Season this base with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground mustard. Adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and slowly incorporate the freshly shredded Cheddar cheese. It’s important to add the cheese gradually and stir continuously to ensure it melts evenly and creates a luscious, cheesy sauce.
- With the sauce ready, return the drained pasta and the peas to the skillet. Toss everything together, making sure that the delicious cheese sauce properly coats the spaghetti.
- For the perfect creamy consistency, add the reserved pasta water little by little, stirring until you achieve your desired texture. Taste the dish and adjust the salt if necessary.
- Your cheesy spaghetti is now ready to be served! Plate it up immediately and don’t forget to top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor.
How to Serve Cheesy Spaghetti
Cheesy spaghetti can be served in various delightful ways. Here are a few ideas to enjoy this dish:
- As a Main Course: Serve cheesy spaghetti hot and fresh as the main attraction of your meal. Pair it with a simple green salad for a well-rounded dinner.
- With Garlic Bread: Enhance the experience by serving your cheesy spaghetti alongside warm, crusty garlic bread. The combination of cheesy goodness and buttery bread is simply irresistible.
- Add a Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp on top of your cheesy spaghetti. This not only boosts the protein content but adds another layer of flavor.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, can elevate the presentation and add a burst of freshness to your dish.
Whichever way you choose to serve your cheesy spaghetti, it’s bound to be a hit at the dinner table!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Spaghetti
Here are some expert tips to help you master the art of making cheesy spaghetti:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Always cook your spaghetti until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook a bit when you combine it with the sauce. This prevents mushy pasta and ensures a delightful bite.
- Experiment with Cheese: While medium Cheddar cheese is a classic, don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses can add exciting flavors to your dish.
- Save the Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is crucial for creating a creamy sauce. If the sauce gets too thick, just add a bit more water to loosen it up.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste! A little more garlic powder or additional herbs can make a big difference in enhancing flavors.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and texture. This not only makes the dish healthier but also adds vibrant colors.
How to Store Cheesy Spaghetti
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), storing them properly helps maintain freshness:
- Cool and Store: Allow the cheesy spaghetti to cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Refrigeration: Homemade cheesy spaghetti can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you wish to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Portion the spaghetti into freezer-safe containers, and keep them for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheat your cheesy spaghetti in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to retain its creaminess.
Variations of Cheesy Spaghetti
While the basic recipe for cheesy spaghetti is delightful as is, here are some variations you might want to try:
- Vegetarian Cheesy Spaghetti: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian twist. These ingredients will add flavor and texture to your dish.
- Spicy Cheesy Spaghetti: If you like a kick of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or mix in diced jalapeños for a spicy version of cheesy spaghetti.
- Herbed Cheesy Spaghetti: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives into the sauce for added flavor. This will make the dish more aromatic and vibrant.
- Protein-Packed Cheesy Spaghetti: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to increase the protein content while making the dish more filling.
- Cheeseburger Spaghetti: For a fun twist, consider adding ground beef seasoned like a cheeseburger into your spaghetti for a hearty meal that the whole family will love.
FAQ: Cheesy Spaghetti
What is cheesy spaghetti?
Cheesy spaghetti is a creamy pasta dish made primarily with spaghetti, a cheesy sauce, and often includes additional ingredients like peas to enhance flavor and nutrition.
How do I make cheesy spaghetti creamy?
To achieve creaminess in your cheesy spaghetti, the key is to save some pasta water and gradually add it to your cheese sauce until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I make cheesy spaghetti ahead of time?
You can prepare the cheesy sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine them before serving and reheat as needed. This makes it a great option for meal prepping!
What types of cheese can I use in cheesy spaghetti?
While medium Cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other types like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend, for a unique flavor profile.
How do I store cheesy spaghetti leftovers?
Leftover cheesy spaghetti should be cooled, then placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer storage.
Cheesy Spaghetti
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Colander
Ingredients
- 14 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup pasta water reserved from cooking
- 1 10 oz package frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground mustard
- 8 oz freshly shredded medium Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Bring 12 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and drop in the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions, subtracting 1 minute for al dente.
- In the last minute of cooking, add the frozen peas to the pot.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain the spaghetti and peas in a colander.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour until smooth, about 1 minute.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking until thickened into a creamy sauce. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and ground mustard, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat and stir in the Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the drained spaghetti and peas to the skillet, tossing to coat in the cheese sauce. Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
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