Classic Garlic Butter Pasta
A quick, comforting pasta dish featuring a silky garlic butter sauce, a of lemon, and fresh Parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend.
Ingredients- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti your favorite pasta-3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
-est 1/2 lemon - 2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/ cup (120 ml) cream or 1/2 cup pasta cooking water for a lighter version - 1/ cup grated Parmesan, plus more serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, garnish (optional)
Instructions
- a large pot of salted water to a boil Cook pasta according to package until al dente. 1/2 cup of the cooking water then.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook, frequently, for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Do not let the garlic burn.
- If using, add red pepper flakes and sauté for seconds.
4 Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice. Pour in the cream (or reserved pasta water) and bring to gentle simmer. - Add the cooked pasta directly to the sauce. Toss to coat adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs more looseness.
- Remove from heat fold in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
Variations
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables to transform into a heartier meal.
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for sharper bite.
- Use half-and-half or olive oil instead of cream for a lighter version.
Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best and.
- For a brighter finish, in a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice off the heat just before serving.
- If the sauce thickens too much, loosen with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Nutrition (approximate)
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: ~520
- Protein: ~20 g
- Carbohydrates: ~64 g
- Fat: ~22 g
- Fiber ~2 gEnjoy this simple, satisfying dish any time you crave a comforting pasta night.