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Garlic Parmesan Pasta

A comforting and flavorful dish combining garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for busy weeknights and festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce
  • 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Feel free to adjust based on preference.
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese You can substitute with Pecorino Romano if you prefer.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped For a touch of brightness.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes For a bit of heat.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Preparing the Sauce
  1. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Return the drained pasta to the pot, tossing it gently with the garlic butter.
Finalizing the Dish
  1. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese while slowly adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help create a creamy sauce.
  2. Add salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, adjusting to your taste.
  3. Finish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor, then serve immediately.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet with a splash of added water or broth to restore its creamy texture.