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Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Parmesan Cheese is the ultimate weeknight dinner that combines simplicity with bold flavors. This dish brings together perfectly cooked spaghetti, a luscious garlic butter sauce, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese—making it a crave-worthy meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes. It’s easy to whip up, satisfying to eat, and ideal for any pasta lover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlic Butter Spaghetti is not just quick; it’s packed with flavor and comfort. Here’s why it should be on your dinner rotation:
- Speedy Prep: Ready in just 20 minutes!
- Bold Flavor: Rich garlic and butter sauce that elevates the simplest ingredients.
- Cheesy Goodness: Topped with freshly grated Parmesan for that umami kick.
- Versatile: Great as a standalone dish or as a side.
- Minimal Ingredients: Simple pantry staples come together beautifully.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Garlic Butter Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the pot with the garlic butter. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
- Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well-coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
- Make sure the garlic is finely minced to ensure even distribution of flavor.
- Don’t skip reserving the pasta water; it helps to create a creamy sauce that clings to the spaghetti.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving.
Easy Variations
- Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for a nutritional kick.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for a fresh twist.
What to Serve With It
- A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for dipping.
- Roasted vegetables to complement the richness of the pasta.
Storage and Reheating
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.
Recipe Card
Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Parmesan Cheese
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield/Servings: 2-3 servings
Ingredients:
8 oz spaghetti
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the drained spaghetti to the pot with the garlic butter. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
4. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well-coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes:
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield/Servings: 2-3 servings
Ingredients:
8 oz spaghetti
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the drained spaghetti to the pot with the garlic butter. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
4. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well-coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes:
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving.
