Creamy Garlic Paprika Spaghetti Recipe

Okay, picture this: it’s been a long day, and all I can think about is diving into a bowl of something that’s comforting, packed with flavor, and just a little indulgent. That’s when my creamy garlic and paprika spaghetti comes in, with its velvety sauce and smoky undertones that turn any ordinary evening into an extraordinary feast. Cooking this dish always feels like I’m orchestrating a symphony of spices right in my kitchen, and the harmony it creates is purely delicious.

My Creamy Paprika Spaghetti is loaded with mouthwatering flavors. Not only do I love the taste of smoked and sweet paprika, but I also love the zest and brightness that garlic-infused olive oil and heavy cream bring to a dish.

And it doesn’t stop there; for even more savory depth, I stir in freshly grated Parmesan, and for a finishing touch, I add a splash of lemon juice.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti: A classic pasta, providing carbohydrates for energy.
• Olive Oil: A healthy fat rich in antioxidants and vitamin E.
• Garlic: Boosts flavor and offers immune-boosting properties.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a rich, smoky flavor and vibrant color.
• Sweet Paprika: Provides subtle warmth without spiciness.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and a creamy texture to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Offers a savory, nutty flavor and protein boost.
• Black Pepper: Enhances flavor with a slight heat.
• Lemon Juice: Optional, for a hint of fresh, tangy brightness.

Ingredient Quantities

• 200g spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

How to Make this

1. In a large pot, prepare salted water and bring it to a boil. Put the spaghetti into the water and cook it until it reaches the al dente texture, which should be consistent with your package directions. Don’t forget to save 1/2 cup of the water that you’re using to cook the pasta before you drain it.

2. In a big frying pan, warm the olive oil at medium setting. Put in the minced garlic and let it cook until it gives off a pleasant smell. This should take about 1 minute, and you must stir constantly to keep the garlic from getting too brown and burnt.

3. Combine the smoked paprika and sweet paprika with the garlic and oil in the skillet. Cook them together over medium heat for about 30 seconds. This will bloom the spices and deepen their flavors before you add the next layer of ingredients. In my world, this is an absolute step to take. Spices add so much depth and character to food. If you’re not using smoked paprika, you’re already missing out on a layer of flavor.

4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring all the while to make a smooth sauce.

5. Slowly incorporate the Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts completely into the cream sauce.

6. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to the sauce, tasting as you go, to ensure you achieve the desired flavor. If you want to add a little more brightness to the sauce, drizzle in some lemon juice.

7. Add the creamy sauce to the skillet, gently tossing with the cooked spaghetti. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.

8. Allow the spaghetti to rest in the sauce over a low flame for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure that it is combined well and heated thoroughly.

9. Lift the spaghetti from the skillet and place onto serving plates.

10. If you’re using freshly chopped parsley, that would be a good garnish to use right before you serve. No matter what, serve this immediately after garnishing. It’s creamy. It’s dreamy. It’s garlicky. And most of all, it’s good!

Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Frying pan/skillet
3. Wooden spoon or spatula
4. Measuring cups
5. Measuring spoons
6. Pasta spoon or tongs
7. Ladle or small cup (for reserving pasta water)
8. Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
9. Knife (for mincing garlic and chopping parsley)
10. Cutting board
11. Colander or strainer
12. Serving plates or bowls

FAQ

• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?Although the recipe calls for spaghetti, you can easily substitute it with fettuccine, linguine, or even a gluten-free pasta, if desired.
• Can I use a different type of oil?You can use another mild-flavored oil in place of olive oil, such as canola or vegetable oil, although nothing else really compares to the nice flavor and depth that olive oil contributes.
• Is there a non-dairy alternative for the heavy cream?Coconut cream and non-dairy cooking creams are options for achieving a creamy texture, but they are not the only options. Consider these seven alternative sources of cream for your next non-dairy kitchen adventure.
• How can I make this dish more spicy?For a little extra spice, think about tossing in a few bits of cayenne pepper or some freshly chopped chilies. Or both.
• Can I add protein to this dish?This recipe complements grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas well, if you’re going for a vegetarian option.
  
• How do I store leftovers?Keep uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
• Is the lemon juice necessary?It is recommended that lemon juice be added, although it is optional. Lemon juice gives a bright, fresh flavor that complements the creamy sauce very well.

Creamy Garlic Paprika Spaghetti Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Fettuccine, linguine, or gluten-free spaghetti can be used in place of spaghetti for a change in texture or to meet dietary restrictions.
Olive oil: Use avocado oil or melted butter as alternatives.
Coconut cream or half-and-half make light substitutes for heavy cream.
Substitute Pecorino Romano cheese or nutritional yeast for dairy-free Parmesan cheese.
Smoked paprika: You can substitute regular paprika or cayenne pepper (for heat).

Pro Tips

1. Pasta Water Magic The reserved pasta water contains starch, which helps the sauce bind to the spaghetti better. Start by adding just a little, and gradually increase until you reach the desired consistency. This also prevents the sauce from becoming too thick or separating.

2. Timing the Garlic To avoid burning the garlic, be ready with the other ingredients before starting to cook it. Keep stirring constantly, and as soon as the garlic turns fragrant and begins to golden, immediately add the paprikas to halt further cooking.

3. Cheese Integration Incorporate the Parmesan cheese slowly and off the heat if needed to prevent clumping or a grainy texture. Stir continuously to ensure it melts evenly into the sauce.

4. Lemon Juice as a Secret Weapon Adding a small amount of lemon juice can help brighten up the flavors of the cream sauce. If you opt to use it, add it off the heat to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.

5. Enhanced Garnish Instead of just using chopped parsley, consider a combination of parsley and a light sprinkle of lemon zest. This will add a fresh aroma and elevate the dish’s flavor profile.