# Components:
→ 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)
# Directions:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
02 - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant without browning.
03 - Add whole milk and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
04 - Gradually add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses, stirring constantly until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
05 - Season the cheese sauce with black pepper, optional nutmeg, and salt to taste.
06 - Add drained spaghetti to the sauce. Toss gently to coat, incorporating reserved pasta water as needed to reach a creamy consistency.
07 - Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.