Garlic Butter Parmesan Pasta

There is something magic about the way garlic butter and Parmesan come together in a simple pasta dish This recipe is my go to on busy weeknights when I want maximum flavor in minimal time The pasta gets tossed in a spicy buttery sauce with a hit of hot sauce for just the right kick and lots of fresh parsley to brighten every bite

I first threw this together with leftover spaghetti after a long workday and could not believe how instantly comforting and satisfying it was My friends voted it into our regular dinner rotation

Ingredients

• Spaghetti pasta: Choose high quality dried pasta for better texture and flavor Whole wheat works for extra nutty bite
• Instant bouillon: Boosts depth and umami so your noodles taste restaurant worthy Use a favorite type beef chicken or vegetable
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the garlic cook gently Look for extra virgin with fruity aroma
• Unsalted butter: Creates that luscious velvety sauce European butter is especially creamy here
• Garlic sliced: Brings sharp flavor Make sure its fresh and firm for the best result
• Hot sauce your favorite: Sriracha is my go to for heat and tang but any kind can work
• Black pepper: Freshly ground delivers a better spicy kick and aroma than preground
• Parmesan cheese: Good quality real Parmesan melts creamy and nutty Try to grate your own if possible
• Fresh chopped parsley: Brings a fresh finishing touch and color to the dish Use flat leaf for the best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil a large pot of water and stir in the instant bouillon until fully dissolved Add the uncooked spaghetti and cook according to the package directions for al dente Reserve about a quarter cup of pasta water before draining the rest This step seasons the pasta from the inside out and prepares the base for your sauce

Start the Garlic Butter Sauce:

While the pasta cooks set a large skillet over medium high heat Pour in the olive oil and add the butter Allow the butter to melt into the oil and swirl to coat the pan Add the sliced garlic and your chosen hot sauce Stir constantly for about two minutes The garlic should soften and become fragrant edging into a gentle golden color Be careful not to let the garlic get too dark or bitter

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Reduce the skillet to low heat Add the cooked pasta directly into the pan working swiftly with tongs to toss and coat the noodles in the spicy garlic butter sauce Immediately add the reserved pasta water sprinkling in the fresh chopped parsley and most of the grated Parmesan Toss again making sure every strand is slicked with sauce and cheese

Finish and Serve:

Check the seasoning If you like extra heat or need more black pepper now is the time Add more Parmesan and parsley over the top for extra punch Serve the pasta hot right from the pan and enjoy that irresistible cheesy melt

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I absolutely love the glow that comes from freshly sliced garlic cooking in butter Every time I smell that combo sizzling I am taken back to evenings at my grandmas where someone was always stirring a pot of buttery noodles just like this

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days For the best reheated results sprinkle a bit of water over the pasta before microwaving to restore its silky texture The sauce stays smooth and flavors only deepen overnight If you want to freeze the pasta do so before adding extra cheese on top for better reheating later

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of spaghetti any long pasta such as linguine or fettuccine will work Gluten free pasta can be swapped in easily For the bouillon you can use stock powder or even a splash of liquid broth in place of the pasta water Only have dried parsley Use a smaller amount to keep the flavor fresh If Parmesan is not available Pecorino Romano adds a bigger punch

Serving Suggestions

Pile the pasta high and offer extra grated Parmesan and parsley on the side I often serve this with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables A little fresh lemon squeezed over the top is beautiful for brightness For a heartier meal top with grilled chicken shrimp or roasted chickpeas

Cultural Context

Garlic butter pasta has roots in the classic Italian aglio e olio but the added Parmesan and heat give it a modern spin In many kitchens across Italy and beyond variations like this get tossed together from whatever is on hand at the end of a busy day It is a fine reminder that simple dishes crafted with care can be just as delicious as the most elaborate ones

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If you keep basic pasta and good cheese around this dish is never more than twenty minutes away and is guaranteed to bring comfort with every bite

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook garlic over medium heat and stir regularly. Remove from heat once golden and fragrant to avoid bitterness.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, linguine, or fettuccine work well and will absorb the sauce just as effectively.

→ What can I substitute for Sriracha?

Try chili flakes, your favorite hot sauce, or omit entirely for a milder flavor profile.

→ Is freshly grated Parmesan necessary?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and provides richer flavor, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.

→ How do I get a creamy sauce texture?

Reserve pasta water and toss it into the pan with the pasta, butter, and cheese to emulsify the sauce.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken or beef for a fully vegetarian version.