Description
Enjoy a delightful Garlic Butter Pasta that’s quick to prepare, featuring al dente spaghetti coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and stir gently. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Drain the pasta in a colander without rinsing.
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic in the melted butter for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes to infuse the sauce.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce thickness.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, tossing to combine.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and optional lemon zest and juice.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Notes
- For added protein, consider including grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Vegetables like sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes can enhance the dish’s nutrition and color.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes