butter sauce for pasta recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best butter sauce for pasta recipe

I’ve always been a fan of simple yet delicious recipes, and this butter sauce for pasta is one of my favorites. It’s a classic Italian recipe that has been passed down through generations, and I’m excited to share it with you.

The dish originated in Italy, where it was known as ‘salsa alla butter,’ and it quickly became a staple in Italian cuisine. The creamy sauce is made with just a few ingredients: butter, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.

It’s easy to make and tastes amazing with a variety of pasta shapes, from spaghetti to linguine. I love serving this dish at family gatherings and special occasions, as it’s sure to impress your guests.

My kids adore it too, and they always ask for seconds (and sometimes thirds!) The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it with chicken, steak, or even as a vegetarian option.

Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, this butter sauce for pasta has got you covered. And the best part?

It’s ridiculously easy to make. I like to think that this recipe is a perfect representation of Italian cuisine – simple yet elegant, with just a few high-quality ingredients that come together to create something truly special.

Classic Butter Sauce for Pasta

4.6 from 759 votes

A rich and silky butter sauce that perfectly coats pasta for a simple yet elegant dish. Made with just a few ingredients, this sauce comes together quickly for a weeknight meal.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent browning.
3The garlic should soften but not take on color.
4Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
5Stir occasionally and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
6Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
7Season with salt and black pepper, then toss with cooked pasta and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 18g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 420mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half of the butter with olive oil. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Watch Video Of How Classic Butter Sauce for Pasta Works

This butter sauce for pasta is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick and delicious meal for your family. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to store and reheat: simply refrigerate the sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

When reheating, be sure to give the sauce a good stir before serving – you want it nice and hot throughout! And don’t forget to serve it with some crusty bread on the side – there’s nothing quite like dipping into that golden-brown goodness.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Sauce for Pasta

1. What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of pasta you like, but I find that long, thin shapes like spaghetti or linguine work best with this sauce.

2. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 3 months.

3. How much garlic should I use in the recipe?

The amount of garlic you use is up to personal preference – if you like a stronger garlic flavor, use more; if you prefer a milder flavor, use less.

4. Can I substitute other cheeses for Parmesan?

You can substitute other cheeses for Parmesan if you prefer – try using Asiago or Grana Padano for a slightly different flavor profile.

5. Can I add protein sources like chicken or shrimp to this recipe?

Yes, you can add protein sources like chicken or shrimp to this recipe – simply cook them separately before adding them to the sauce.

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