Description
Garlic Butter Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in garlic butter.
- Pour in reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and lemon zest if desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality butter for the richest flavor.
- Add cooked shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
- Can be made with gluten-free pasta if desired.
- Best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian