This Creamy Spaghetti with Red Pepper and Cheeses is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and a subtle sweetness from red peppers. The sauce, made with chicken broth, cream, and two types of cheeses, coats the spaghetti for a rich and satisfying meal. It’s a great option for a comforting dinner that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- Spaghetti: 300g (about 10 oz)
- Sweet Red Pepper: 1, finely chopped
- Butter: 40g (3 tablespoons)
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Flour: 10g (1 tablespoon)
- Chicken Broth: 300ml (1¼ cups)
- Cream (20% fat): 125g (½ cup)
- Dill: 1 bunch, chopped
- Parmesan Cheese: 100g (1 cup), grated
- Cheddar Cheese: 100g (1 cup), grated
- Vegetable Oil: As needed for sautéing
- Salt: To taste
Directions:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.
- Add the chopped sweet red pepper and cook for a few minutes until softened.
- Stir in the butter until melted, then sprinkle the flour over the mixture and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened.
- Add the cream and stir to combine. Season with salt to taste.
- Combine Spaghetti and Sauce:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated with the sauce.
- Add the Cheeses:
- Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan and cheddar cheeses until they melt into the sauce.
- Serve:
- Transfer the creamy spaghetti to serving plates. Garnish with chopped dill and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a spicy kick.
- Serve with a chilled glass of white wine for a perfect pairing.
Cooking Tips:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan and cheddar for the best flavor and texture.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Be sure to stir constantly after adding the flour to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add an extra clove of garlic.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free thickener instead of flour.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Spaghetti: A good source of carbohydrates for energy.
- Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
- Red Pepper: Rich in vitamins A and C, offering antioxidants.
- Garlic: Known for its heart-healthy benefits and immune-boosting properties.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians if you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour substitutes to make this dish gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the cream and cheeses with dairy-free alternatives to create a dairy-free version.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 580
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as reheating may affect the creaminess of the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of Parmesan and cheddar makes this dish irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly: The rich, cheesy sauce is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
- Comforting: This dish is the ultimate comfort food with its creamy sauce and satisfying pasta base.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Spaghetti with Red Pepper and Cheeses is a comforting and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with the sweetness of the red pepper and the freshness of dill creates a delightful flavor profile. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as I do!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute or add other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or fontina for a different flavor.
2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can replace the cream, Parmesan, and cheddar with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cheeses.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or linguine.
4. Can I make this dish in advance?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can make it in advance and reheat it gently. Be sure to add a little milk or broth when reheating to maintain the creamy texture.
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5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little extra liquid to restore the creaminess of the sauce.