Butter garlic pasta is a dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table in no time. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, buttery sauce with a hint of garlic that tantalizes your taste buds. This recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about creating a meal that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to prepare.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying dish to impress your guests, this butter garlic pasta recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of savory garlic and creamy butter creates a sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, proteins, or herbs to make it your own. Ready to whip up a comforting bowl of happiness? Let’s dive into this buttery goodness.
Understanding Butter Garlic Pasta
Butter garlic pasta embodies comfort food at its finest. The simplicity of this dish lies in its rich flavor profile, where perfectly cooked spaghetti meets velvety butter and fragrant garlic.
Each mouthful offers a delightful balance of richness and warmth, making it an ideal choice for both quick meals and special occasions.
Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or served to guests, this comforting dish promises to impress with its straightforward preparation and satisfying taste.
The Core Ingredients
The foundation of butter garlic pasta is built on a few key ingredients that come together seamlessly.
Fresh spaghetti or your preferred pasta, ready to be cooked to al dente perfection, pairs beautifully with unsalted butter, which is the heart of this dish.
Add in minced garlic for that aromatic touch, and consider a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. For those who enjoy a bit of tang, grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish further.
The Cooking Process
Preparing butter garlic pasta is straightforward and requires just a few steps. Begin by boiling salted water and cooking the pasta until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, allowing the garlic to infuse the butter with its wonderful aroma.
Combine the cooked pasta with the garlic butter, tossing gently to coat each strand.
Seasoning to Perfection
Seasoning is essential to bring out the flavors in butter garlic pasta. A sprinkle of salt and freshly cracked black pepper can transform the dish, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.
If desired, folding in Parmesan cheese will enhance the creaminess, creating a luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Don’t forget the final touch of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
A Touch of Pairing
This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine, complementing the buttery notes perfectly.
For a complete meal, consider serving a light salad or some crusty bread on the side.
The rustic wooden table setting, adorned with a sprinkle of Parmesan, creates an inviting atmosphere that invites everyone to dig in and enjoy.
Versatile Variations
One of the beauties of butter garlic pasta is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, proteins, or herbs.
Exploring different combinations can turn this classic dish into a new favorite variation.
Whether you choose to keep it simple or add your personal touch, the end result will always be deliciously satisfying.
The Ultimate Butter Garlic Pasta Recipe
This butter garlic pasta is a delightful blend of al dente spaghetti, fragrant garlic, and velvety butter. The taste is a perfect balance of richness and warmth, making every bite a satisfying experience.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the butter and garlic mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Season: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If using, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious butter garlic pasta hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
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