Garlic Butter Pasta

I made this garlic butter pasta on a night when I wanted something comforting and simple, so I tossed hot spaghetti with melted butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. The smell of garlic sizzling in butter filled the kitchen, and the result was a silky, flavorful dish that felt indulgent yet effortless.

Since then this pasta has been my go-to recipe when I need a quick dinner or a satisfying side. It’s creamy, garlicky, and pairs well with almost anything while standing beautifully on its own.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Spaghetti – Perfect for holding onto the buttery garlic sauce.
• Butter – Creates the rich, velvety base for the sauce.
• Garlic – Minced, adding a fragrant punch of flavor.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds creaminess and a savory, nutty taste.
• Fresh parsley – Brings freshness and color to the dish.
• Olive oil – Blends with butter to prevent burning and add flavor.
• Salt and black pepper – To balance and enhance the overall taste.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Large pot – For boiling the pasta.
• Strainer – To drain the cooked pasta.
• Skillet – For making the garlic butter sauce.
• Knife – For mincing garlic and chopping parsley.
• Tongs – To toss the pasta with the sauce.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by boiling the spaghetti in salted water until al dente, then reserving a little pasta water before draining.

Step 2:

While the pasta cooks, I melt butter with olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Step 3:

I add minced garlic and sauté it gently until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4:

I toss the drained pasta into the skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.

Step 5:

I mix in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the pasta is coated and creamy.

Step 6:

Finally I season with salt, black pepper, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot.

Tips

I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also top it with grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a complete meal. For extra creaminess, stir in a bit of heavy cream.

Ways to Serve

This garlic butter pasta is delicious on its own, but it’s also a perfect side dish for steak, roasted vegetables, or baked salmon. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, linguine, fettuccine, or penne work just as well.

Can I make garlic butter pasta ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat with a bit of extra butter.

How do I keep the garlic from burning?

Cook it on low heat and stir constantly until just golden and fragrant.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this garlic butter pasta because it’s rich, simple, and so full of flavor. Share your version with me because I’d love to see how you make it your own.

Happy Cooking!

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