Today I’m sharing one of my old standbys when it comes to quick and easy sides. These cream cheese noodles are creamy, garlicky and oh, so delicious. The secret here is reserving some of that starchy pasta water for the sauce. You can even toss some grilled chicken on top and turn this easy side into an easy entree (double the recipe if you do that).

Add grilled chicken to make this an easy entrée. (Southern Bite)

Easy Cream Cheese Noodles

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• salt
• pepper

Instructions

1. In a large pot, cook the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions.
2. Before draining, dip out 1/2 cup of pasta water and set aside.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.
4. Return the pasta pot to the heat over medium low and add the reserved pasta water and the cubed cream cheese.
5. Whisk together until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the garlic powder.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste.
8. Add the pasta back to the pot and toss to coat.
9. Serve immediately.

This recipe originally appeared on SouthernBite.com. For more great recipes, visit the website or check out ”The Southern Bite Cookbook.”