Description
This Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a quick and delicious dish that combines al dente pasta with a rich garlic butter sauce, enhanced by freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or an elegant side, it balances buttery, savory, and slightly spicy flavors with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces Pasta of choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne) (Cooked al dente)
- 6 cloves Fresh garlic, minced (Adds robust flavor)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (Adds richness to the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil (Enhances flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (To taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (To taste)
- Optional red pepper flakes (For heat)
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (Melts beautifully)
- 1/4 cup Chopped fresh parsley (For garnish)
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta to use later for the sauce.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted, add minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and golden brown, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will become bitter.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the garlic-infused butter. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Gradually add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency, allowing it to coat the pasta smoothly.
- Add Cheese and Season: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until the cheese is melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season the pasta with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water helps to loosen the sauce and bind the ingredients smoothly.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor and avoid burning it to keep the sauce tasting fresh and not bitter.
- Parmesan cheese should be freshly grated as pre-grated cheese won’t melt as well.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your desired spice level or omit if you prefer no heat.
- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or milk (optional).
