What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? A hearty plate of homemade spaghetti topped with parmesan cheese, of course. This easy and quick recipe is a family favorite, featuring tender noodles and a rich sauce made with garlic and olive oil. Save this idea for a delicious meal to enjoy tonight.

two plates filled with spaghetti and topped with parmesan cheese

Introduction

Imagine a dish so simple, yet so divine, that it brings joy to both the cook and the diner. Two plates filled with spaghetti and topped with parmesan cheese is a classic Italian dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease of preparation, allowing you to unleash your creativity in the kitchen without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of spaghetti, parmesan cheese, and your choice of sauce creates a perfect harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Plus, these ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making it a convenient option for a weeknight dinner.
Ease of preparation: Cooking spaghetti is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort, and topping it with parmesan cheese adds a touch of sophistication without extra hassle.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this dish can impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and satisfying portions. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to cook a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include spaghetti, parmesan cheese, and your choice of sauce (marinara, alfredo, or pesto work well). You can also add some garlic bread on the side for a more filling meal. For the spaghetti, look for high-quality, dried spaghetti made from durum wheat semolina. When it comes to parmesan cheese, opt for the authentic, aged variety for the best flavor. As for the sauce, you can use store-bought or homemade, depending on your preference and the time you have available. Some other ingredients you might find useful include olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. While waiting for the water to boil, you can start preparing your sauce or heating up a store-bought one.
Step 2: Once the water is boiling, carefully add the spaghetti and cook until it’s al dente. This should take around 8-10 minutes, depending on the package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
Step 3: If using, add your sauce to the spaghetti and toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Then, divide the spaghetti between two plates.
Step 4: Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of parmesan cheese over the spaghetti. You can also add some grated black pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Handy Tips

To prevent the spaghetti from becoming too sticky, make sure to stir it occasionally while it’s cooking. Also, don’t overcook the spaghetti, as it can become mushy and unappetizing.
If you’re using a homemade sauce, consider making it in advance to allow the flavors to meld together. This will result in a richer, more complex taste.
For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil over the parmesan cheese. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Heat Control

When cooking the spaghetti, it’s essential to monitor the heat to prevent the water from boiling over. Keep the heat at a high level until the water starts boiling, then reduce it to a simmer to cook the spaghetti gently. If you’re heating up a sauce, make sure it’s over low-medium heat to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the parmesan cheese, which adds a nice textural contrast to the soft spaghetti. To enhance this, you can also sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts over the cheese for added crunch. However, be mindful not to overdo it, as too much crunch can overwhelm the dish.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

One trick to achieve perfectly cooked spaghetti is to cook it for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions, then finish cooking it in the sauce. This helps the spaghetti absorb the flavors of the sauce better.
To prevent the parmesan cheese from becoming too clumpy, grate it just before serving. You can also mix it with a bit of pasta water to create a creamy, cheesy sauce.
For easier cleanup, consider cooking the spaghetti in a large pot with a strainer insert. This allows you to lift out the spaghetti without having to use a colander.

Storage Tips

Leftover spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply toss it with a bit of olive oil and microwave until warm.
It’s best to store the parmesan cheese in its original packaging or an airtight container to maintain its flavor and texture.
Avoid storing cooked spaghetti in the freezer, as it can become mushy and unappetizing when thawed. However, you can freeze uncooked spaghetti for up to 6 months.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is typically served fresh, you can package the ingredients as a gift for a friend or family member who loves Italian food. Consider placing a box of spaghetti, a block of parmesan cheese, and a jar of marinara sauce in a decorative basket or bag. Add some garlic bread and a bottle of wine for a complete Italian-themed gift.

Flavor Variations

Different spices: Try adding some dried basil or oregano to the spaghetti for a more herbaceous flavor. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Creative toppings: In addition to parmesan cheese, you can top the spaghetti with other ingredients like diced tomatoes, sliced olives, or grilled chicken.
Ingredient swaps: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free spaghetti made from rice, quinoa, or corn flour. You can also substitute the parmesan cheese with other hard cheeses like pecorino or romano.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the spaghetti becomes too sticky or mushy, it’s likely overcooked. Try cooking it for a shorter time or using a different type of spaghetti.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses or even nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
Over/undercooking signs: To check if the spaghetti is cooked al dente, bite into it – it should have a bit of resistance in the center but not be hard or crunchy.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? It’s not recommended to freeze cooked spaghetti, as it can become mushy and unappetizing when thawed. However, you can freeze uncooked spaghetti for up to 6 months.
Is it gluten-free? Traditional spaghetti is made from wheat and contains gluten. However, you can find gluten-free alternatives made from rice, quinoa, or corn flour.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and ingredient quantities accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, two plates filled with spaghetti and topped with parmesan cheese is a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its simplicity, flavor, and versatility, it’s a recipe that you’ll return to time and time again. Whether you’re a busy professional or an avid home cook, this dish is a great addition to your culinary repertoire. So go ahead, give it a try, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own!

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