Irresistible Garlic Butter Pasta: A Comforting Delight

There’s something magical about garlic butter pasta. Imagine a dish that effortlessly wraps around your senses, filling your kitchen with a captivating aroma that beckons everyone to the table. This isn’t just any pasta; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, with buttery goodness and garlic dancing together like old friends at a reunion.

Every twirl of your fork reveals glistening strands of pasta, each coated in silky garlic-infused butter, ready to transport you to culinary bliss. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an extravagant gathering, this dish promises an experience worth savoring.

Sometimes I serve garlic butter pasta at family gatherings, and the delighted faces make me feel like a culinary rock star.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose your favorite type—spaghetti or fettuccine works best for soaking up the sauce.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning.

• Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves to ensure maximum flavor and aroma.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese for richer taste; avoid the pre-grated stuff if you can.

• Fresh Parsley: A handful adds color and freshness; chop it finely for even distribution.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors; season according to personal preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally.

Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned; about 1-2 minutes should suffice.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is done, reserve some cooking water before draining. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the melted garlic butter, stirring well to coat all strands.

Add Flavor Enhancers: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix until melted. If necessary, add reserved pasta water gradually until reaching desired creaminess.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and toss in chopped parsley with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately while warm, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Now you have a delightful plate of garlic butter pasta that’s ready to impress! Enjoy every delectable bite of this simple yet satisfying dish.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta while you melt the butter and sauté the garlic. This multitasking ensures everything comes together seamlessly, maximizing flavor and freshness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different herbs or add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. Grated cheese can also enhance the richness, giving it a personalized flair that matches your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover garlic butter pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

The first time I made garlic butter pasta, my friends devoured it so quickly I barely got a plate! Their delighted faces were priceless, and now it’s a regular at our gatherings.

FAQ

Can I use other pastas for garlic butter pasta?

Absolutely! Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options work beautifully.

What can I add to make garlic butter pasta more filling?

Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables makes this dish heartier and more satisfying.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking and toss with olive oil after draining to keep it loose.

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Garlic Butter Pasta

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Garlic butter pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that transforms a simple meal into an unforgettable experience. With silky strands of pasta enveloped in rich, garlic-infused butter, this recipe captures the essence of Italian cuisine. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s quick to prepare and customizable to suit any palate. Elevate your dining with its inviting aroma and mouthwatering taste that promises to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz spaghetti (or fettuccine)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the garlic butter, mixing well to coat.
4. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water until desired creaminess is achieved.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in chopped parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: For added richness, consider incorporating grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. Experiment with different herbs such as basil or thyme for unique flavor profiles.