Butter Garlic Pasta

What Started it all:
Butter
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this Butter Garlic Pasta, a simple yet delightful dish that brings out the best in butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe serves four and is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Melt the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.
- Add Red Pepper Flakes: If using, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir for another 30 seconds to infuse the flavor.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season: Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
This Butter Garlic Pasta is not only quick and easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to enjoy the rich taste of butter. It's a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite proteins or vegetables. Enjoy your culinary creation!