# What You Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz dried spaghetti
02 - 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)
→ Dairy
03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
04 - 3/4 cup plus 1 tbsp whole milk
05 - 1/3 cup plus 1 tbsp heavy cream
06 - 3/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
07 - 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2/3 cup grated cheddar cheese
→ Seasonings
09 - 1 clove garlic, finely minced
10 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
11 - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
12 - Salt, to taste
→ Garnish
13 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
02 - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding browning.
03 - Pour in milk and heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
04 - Gradually add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar, stirring constantly until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
05 - Add black pepper, nutmeg if using, and salt to taste. Stir to combine.
06 - Add drained spaghetti to the cheese sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to achieve creamy texture.
07 - Plate immediately and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
