Pin It 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 cozy night in with friends, and it quickly became a favorite for its gooey, cheesy sauce and comforting texture.
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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)
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Instructions
- Cook 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 Sauce 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.
- 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 & Combine:
- Season the sauce with black pepper, nutmeg (if using), and salt to taste. Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Pin It 
Sharing this creamy spaghetti at our family table always sparks happy chatter and requests for seconds, especially from the kids who love all things cheesy.
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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. Double-check cheese and pasta labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 535, Total Fat: 24 g, Carbohydrates: 60 g, Protein: 21 g
Pin It 
This three-cheese spaghetti makes even ordinary nights special: a final sprinkle of fresh parsley and a crack of black pepper brings the meal together beautifully.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cheeses are used in this dish?
Mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses combine to create a rich, creamy sauce.
- → How do I achieve a creamy sauce consistency?
Adding reserved pasta water gradually helps thin the sauce and coat the spaghetti smoothly.
- → Can I substitute other cheeses here?
Gruyère, Fontina, or Gouda are excellent alternatives for different flavor profiles.
- → How long does the cooking process take?
Total preparation and cooking time is about 25 minutes, making it a quick meal option.
- → What seasoning enhances the flavor best?
Freshly ground black pepper and a touch of nutmeg balance the richness, while garlic provides aroma.
- → Are there options to add protein to this dish?
Cooked chicken, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms can be stirred in for added protein and texture.
