Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes

Name: Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 oz thin spaghetti; 6 oz cream cheese, cubed; 1 tsp minced garlic; 3 Tbsp butter; 3 Tbsp sour cream; 5 Tbsp milk; 2 to 3 tsp salt-free Cajun seasoning; ½ tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried parsley; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

Isabella

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Are you craving a comforting yet indulgent pasta dish that’s quick and easy to whip up? Look no further than Creamy Parmesan Noodles! This recipe combines the richness of cream cheese, the tanginess of Parmesan, and a hint of Cajun seasoning for a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering meal:

Ingredients:

8 oz thin spaghetti

6 oz cream cheese, cubed

1 tsp minced garlic

3 Tbsp butter

3 Tbsp sour cream

5 Tbsp milk

2 to 3 tsp salt-free Cajun seasoning

½ tsp onion powder

1 tsp dried parsley

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Cook the Spaghetti: Begin by cooking the thin spaghetti according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Prepare the Sauce: While the spaghetti is cooking, it’s time to prepare the luscious sauce. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the minced garlic in butter for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Create the Creamy Base: Next, add the cubed cream cheese, sour cream, milk, Cajun seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and cook the mixture, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to let it boil.

Incorporate the Parmesan Cheese: Once the sauce is smooth, remove the skillet from the heat and gently stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully incorporated into the sauce.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Now, add the cooked spaghetti to the creamy sauce in the skillet, tossing it gently to ensure that every strand of pasta is coated in the delicious sauce.
Final Touch: To finish off this delightful dish, sprinkle the creamy Parmesan noodles with dried parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Serve and Enjoy: Your Creamy Parmesan Noodles are now ready to be served! Divide the pasta among plates and savor every creamy, cheesy bite.

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Related Recipes:

Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Serving Tips:

Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the plated noodles for an added burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve Creamy Parmesan Noodles alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, top the noodles with grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables for an extra boost of protein and nutrients.

Bread Basket: Serve warm garlic bread or breadsticks on the side to mop up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
Presentation Matters: Plate the noodles neatly, and consider using a pair of kitchen tongs to create a visually appealing presentation.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Creamy Parmesan Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the noodles in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
Avoid Freezing: While it’s technically possible to freeze Creamy Parmesan Noodles, the texture of the sauce may change upon thawing, becoming slightly grainy or separated. If you do choose to freeze, store the noodles and sauce separately in airtight containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Freshen Up: If the sauce thickens upon refrigeration, simply add a splash of milk or cream while reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the dish?

Absolutely! The beauty of the Creamy Parmesan Noodles recipe lies in its versatility. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a salt-free Cajun seasoning blend. Conversely, if you’re a spice enthusiast, feel free to increase the amount of seasoning or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of thin spaghetti?

Yes, you can substitute thin spaghetti with any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine, penne, or bowtie pasta. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time according to the package instructions for the type of pasta you’re using to ensure it cooks to al dente perfection.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to cream cheese and sour cream?

For a dairy-free version of Creamy Parmesan Noodles, you can use plant-based alternatives such as dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream, which are readily available in most grocery stores. Additionally, you can replace the milk with your preferred non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond milk or coconut milk, to achieve the same creamy texture.

Can I make this recipe in advance for a party or gathering?

While Creamy Parmesan Noodles are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, then toss it with freshly cooked pasta. However, for optimal taste and texture, it’s recommended to cook the pasta just before serving to maintain its al dente quality.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the luxurious taste of Creamy Parmesan Noodles, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the irresistible combination of creamy sauce, al dente pasta, and savory Parmesan cheese—it’s a culinary delight that’s guaranteed to please!