Are you craving that rich, creamy, utterly irresistible spaghetti you get at the Cheesecake Factory? Well, stop dreaming and start cooking! This copycat recipe brings the magic of that famous dish right into your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers all the cheesy, savory goodness you adore without the restaurant price tag. Get ready for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal the whole family will love! This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes, healthy meals (with some modifications!), and quick dinner ideas that don't compromise on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage for a richer flavor)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Meat
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Dream
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Pecorino Romano (if using). Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
- Use good quality cheese: The cheese makes a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for extra protein and heartiness.
- Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Meat Lovers: Add Italian sausage, pancetta, or meatballs to the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 600-700
- Fat: Approximately 35-45g
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
This delicious Cheesecake Factory copycat spaghetti recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a delicious dish, easy enough for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Enjoy!