pasta and garlic recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best pasta and garlic recipe

I’ve always been a fan of simple yet flavorful dishes, and pasta and garlic recipe is one of my go-to options. It’s a classic Italian recipe that has been passed down through generations, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and pairs well with a variety of ingredients.

The key to this recipe is the combination of garlic and olive oil, which gives the dish its signature flavor. To make it even more special, I like to add some fresh herbs like parsley or basil to give it a bit of brightness.

My family loves this recipe, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings. In fact, I’ve even served it at potlucks and parties, and everyone always raves about it.

There’s something about the way the garlic infuses into the pasta that just makes it feel like a comforting hug in a bowl. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – garlic has antibacterial properties and can help boost your immune system, while olive oil is rich in antioxidants.

It’s a win-win situation! So if you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than this pasta and garlic recipe.

Garlic Butter Pasta

Garlic Butter Pasta

4.9 from 1337 votes

A simple and flavorful pasta dish where al dente spaghetti is tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. The garlic is gently sautéed until golden to release its sweetness, then combined with fresh parsley and Parmesan.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time20 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz spaghetti
1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

6 tbsp unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add 1 tablespoon of salt, then add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander.
4While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn golden, but not browned.
6Remove the skillet from the heat to prevent the garlic from burning.
7Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic butter and toss well to coat.
8Pour in 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, then toss again until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce.
9If the sauce seems too thick, add more pasta water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
10Season the pasta with salt and black pepper to taste, then stir in the fresh parsley.
11Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 13g

📝Notes

For a more intense garlic flavor, let the sliced garlic sit for 10 minutes before cooking to allow the allicin to develop. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness.

Watch Video Of How Garlic Butter Pasta Works

This pasta and garlic recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is fast, affordable, and everyone loves it. I make it for family gatherings when I need a dish that pleases kids and adults alike.

It works well as a main course or a side dish next to grilled meat or fish. For storage, keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days.

To reheat, I add a little olive oil and warm it in a skillet over medium heat. You can also microwave it, but the stovetop keeps the texture better.

Serve it with extra grated parmesan and fresh parsley for a fresh finish. This recipe is a keeper in my kitchen and I hope it becomes one in yours too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Pasta

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using a high-quality pasta that can hold onto the sauce well, such as spaghetti or linguine. Avoid using thin noodles like angel hair or capellini, as they may become too soggy with the garlic sauce.

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