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Garlic Butter Pasta

Garlic Butter Pasta

Garlic Butter Pasta is a rich and creamy dish featuring perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. This quick and simple recipe uses pantry staples to create a comforting, satisfying meal that can be customized for various diets and preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Garnish (Optional)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta of choice until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on pasta type. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and olive oil together. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Add reserved pasta water a splash at a time to achieve a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to the noodles.
  4. Season and Finish: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix well and fold in chopped fresh parsley if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Always use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
  • Choose unsalted, high-quality butter for creaminess and salt control.
  • Cook pasta until al dente to maintain texture.
  • Use reserved pasta water gradually to emulsify the sauce.
  • Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter pasta, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, creamy pasta, garlic pasta, vegetarian pasta