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Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe Easy Homemade 5-Ingredient Dinner Idea

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A quick and easy creamy, cheesy spaghetti dish made with just five simple ingredients, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) spaghetti
  • 4 ounces (115 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (about 100 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: pinch of black pepper or red pepper flakes
  • Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, add 1 cup (240 ml) of milk and 4 ounces (115 grams) of softened cream cheese. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the mixture is smooth without lumps, about 3-4 minutes. Lower heat if lumps remain and stir gently.
  3. Gradually stir in 1 cup (about 100 grams) of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, around 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  4. Add the drained spaghetti directly into the sauce. Toss gently with a wooden spoon or spatula to coat every strand. Cook together for another 1-2 minutes to let flavors meld, avoiding overcooking.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Notes

For a creamier sauce, add a tablespoon of butter after melting the cheese. Use low to medium heat to avoid lumps or burning. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Leftovers reheat best in a skillet with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent drying out.

Nutrition

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